Casual Governance Professional

Who we are & what we stand for

Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match. We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’d be joining us at a very exciting time. We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward‑thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.

At Gateshead Council you’d be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi‑time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.

The Governor Support Service is a busy, high‑performing team providing high‑quality clerking, advice and governance support to school governing bodies and academy trust boards. The team delivers expert guidance on governance regulations, prepares agendas and documentation, supports meetings, and ensures boards have the information they need to make effective decisions. Their work plays a vital role in strengthening local school governance and fostering strong, professional relationships with chairs, trustees and school leaders.

• Produce draft agendas and final agendas for governing body and committee meetings.
• Attend governing body, committee, exclusion and complaint meetings – mainly during evenings.
• Provide advice to governing bodies and academy trust boards before, during and after meetings, ensuring compliance with governance regulations.
• Write accurate draft minutes within 15–20 working days and complete follow‑up actions.
• Maintain strong, professional working relationships with chairs, boards and school leaders.
• Support effective governance by applying knowledge of the schools system, legislation and good practice.
• Work term‑time only and undertake regular unsocial hours as part of meeting attendance requirements.

• A relevant clerking qualification (or commitment to complete one within 12 months).
• A good standard of education with strong literacy, numeracy and IT skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including minute taking and report writing.
• Planning, organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines and manage competing demands.
• People and relationship‑building skills, with the professionalism to work effectively with chairs, boards and school leaders.
• Advisory and problem‑solving skills, applying knowledge of governance legislation and effective governance practice.
• A current driving licence and access to a car/means of mobility support to attend meetings across locations.

• Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience,
  Hourly rate of £16.62 per hour
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).

We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences in the society…