SCHOOLS across Darlington are looking for volunteers to give their time and expertise as governors.

Darlington Borough Council has asked for people who have an interest in education and who feel they can bring fresh ideas to schools and education in the town to come forward.

Each school has a governing body that helps to plan its future direction by agreeing its improvement strategy, appointing the head teacher, making decisions on the budget and staffing, among other tasks.

Governors work as a team, to ensure the school provides the best education for its pupils.

It is not necessary to be a parent or to have any particular qualifications.

Training courses are available for people who would like to take on the role, which also bring the chance to learn a number of transferable skills.

Councillor Cyndi Hughes, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, who is also a long-serving school governor, said: “Being a school governor is a rewarding role that can be filled by anyone with an interest in education and the future of Darlington’s children.

“You do not need to be a parent or to have any specific qualifications – enthusiasm, time and commitment to support a school are the key requirements.”

Amanda Baillie, a governor at Heathfield Primary School, said: "This experience has been very fulfilling and I feel like I am making a positive difference to the lives of children in my community."

For more information visit darlington.gov.uk/governors or e-mail governors@darlington.gov.uk