1. Purpose of the Role
The Clerk to Governors is responsible for providing professional, procedural and administrative support to the Governing Body of Horizons Independent School.
The role ensures governance operates effectively, legally and in line with the Independent School Standards (ISS Part 8 – Leadership & Management) and relevant statutory guidance.
The Clerk is independent of the Headteacher and acts as a governance professional advisor.
1. Key ResponsibilitiesA. Meeting Management
2. Prepare and agree agendas with the Chair and Headteacher
3. Issue agenda and papers at least 7 days in advance
4. Attend and minute 3 Full Governing Body meetings per academic year
5. Accurately record decisions, actions and challenge
6. Circulate draft minutes within 7 working days
7. Maintain an action log and decision register
8. Ensure minutes reflect governance challenge and strategic oversight
B. Governance Compliance
* Advise governors on:
* Independent School Standards (ISS)
* Safeguarding governance responsibilities
* Complaints panel procedures
* Regulatory expectations (Ofsted)
* Ensure statutory policies are reviewed according to schedule
* Maintain a governance calendar
* Support annual self-evaluation of governance
C. Record Keeping & Documentation
* Maintain a secure record of:
* Signed minutes
* Governor declarations of interest
* Attendance records
* Governor training log
* Ensure confidentiality and GDPR compliance
* Maintain a governance document repository
D. Supporting Governance Effectiveness
* Support induction of new governors
* Provide procedural guidance during meetings
* Ensure conflicts of interest are declared and recorded
* Track completion of governance actions
* Time Commitment
Core Meetings:
* 3 Full Governing Body meetings (approx. 2–3 hours each)
Preparation & Follow-Up:
* Agenda preparation (2–3 hours per meeting)
* Minute writing (3–5 hours per meeting)
* Governance compliance checks (approx. 10–15 hours annually)
Estimated Total: 40-60 hours per academic year
Additional time may be required for:
* Complaints panel hearings
* Emergency meetings
* Inspection preparation
* Person SpecificationEssential
* Experience clerking for a governing body or board
* Excellent minute-taking skills
* Strong understanding of governance procedures
* High level of discretion and confidentiality
* Strong written communication skills
* Ability to remain impartial and independent
Desirable
* Knowledge of Independent School Standards
* Understanding of safeguarding governance
* Experience in education governance
* Skills & Competencies
* Organised and methodical
* Able to manage deadlines
* Strong attention to detail
* Professional and diplomatic
* Confident advising senior leaders
* Safeguarding
Horizons Independent School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
The successful candidate will be required to:
* Undertake an enhanced DBS check
* Adhere to the school's safeguarding and confidentiality policies
* Accountability
The Clerk is accountable to the Proprietor / Chair of Governors and works independently of the Headteacher to maintain governance integrity.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 1 – 6 per week
Benefits:
* Referral programme
* Work from home
Work Location: In person