THOSE with an interest in education are being asked to help make a positive difference by volunteering to be school governor.

Hampshire County Council says that some of the county's 524 schools have vacancies for between one and three governors.

Governors support and challenge school leaders and help to drive up standards, ensure school finances are properly managed and ensure that children are safe, happy and, with the school’s teaching and support, are achieving their personal best.

There are more than 5,000 governors currently volunteering at schools across Hampshire.

The county's education boss Councillor Peter Edgar said: “Being a school governor is a very rewarding and fulfilling role.

“Schools can benefit from the wealth of experience of people from all walks of life, and the skills they have acquired from a wide range of careers – and I urge more people to consider supporting our family of schools. People can find out more about being a governor online, by contacting their local school, or by calling Governor Services on 01962 845706."

Betty Read has been a Local Authority Governor for over 12 years and said: “It is very rewarding to see the impact of our policies and strategic decisions on outcomes for pupils and on the wider school community. It's fun. Everyone has something to offer from their own life: experiences which will be valuable – you don’t need to be a lawyer, teacher or accountant, or to be employed at all, to be able to do this role; it’s not all about reading papers! All governors contribute in different ways.”

Governors can also get involved in recruitment, finance and curriculum as well as providing a strong link between the school and the local community, and an independent view on development and improvement.