The role of a school governor is to contribute to the work of the governing body in ensuring high standards of achievement for all children in the school by:

• Setting the school's vision, ethos and strategic direction
• Holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils; and 
• Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent

All of the governors at The Wharf Nursery School are volunteers who are appointed or elected and serve for 4 years. We meet six times a year (twice a term) to provide a strategic overview of the nursery school, and in addition offer support, innovation and challenge to ensure the nursery exceeds expectations and is known locally as a centre of excellence.

As The Wharf is a state-maintained nursery school, we are judged by Ofsted as an educational establishment rather than a daycare centre, and we are therefore accountable for all aspects of a child's welfare and early education provision. One of the key responsibilities of a governor is to ensure that the achievement of children across the board meets the criteria set down by the government for maintained nursery provision.

If you would like to know more about being a governor, then please email our Chair of Governors, Lisa Seeley:  lisa.seeley@wharf.surrey.sch.uk  or speak to school office.

Some thoughts from our our current governors:

“I like to think that we are a group of like minded individuals who value the importance of high quality early years education.  If you are someone who wishes to champion the needs of the vulnerable children alongside those who are more confident and able, this is the role for you. 

Along the way we meet new friends, have a few laughs and get to know the local community better”

Lisa Seeley, Chair of Governors

Education has changed in lots of ways from when I was a child. Now that I have two young children of my own, I found myself wanting to understand more about the education system today (right from the very early years), to understand the challenges and opportunities that our schools face, and to be in a position to provide support and the use of my professional skills where possible.  With my eldest attending the WNS, I’ve witnessed first hand the value that the teaching and care has provided in terms of my sons development and readiness for school.  Being a governor enables me to really understand all the fantastic work that goes on behind the scenes and to be in a position to provide guidance into the future. That, for me, is a real privilege” 

 Ceri Aiken, Parent Governor

“My children, now adults, were pupils at The Wharf Nursery School, and I was aware of the high standard of education provided. I became a governor because I was interested in supporting The Wharf because I believe in the importance of quality Early Years Education. I enjoy contributing to the development of the school, and have been encouraged by the welcoming atmosphere and the level of commitment of the governing body and staff”

Jacky Beale, Governor