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28 September 2026
Stepping into the role of a parish or town councillor is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in your local community. However, understanding how councils operate—and your responsibilities within them—can feel overwhelming, especially if you are new to local government.
Over these two sessions that have been specifically designed to give you the confidence and knowledge you need to participate fully in your council. It explains the legal framework, governance principles, practical aspects of the role, and the role of your Clerk ensuring you are well-prepared to serve effectively.
Councillors attending these sessions will benefit from having two course tutors delivering the content between them, using examples from their knowledge & experiences of Councils.
Course Content:
- Understanding Local Government
How parish and town councils fit into the bigger picture. - Roles and Responsibilities
The duties of councillors, clerks, chairs, and other key figures. - Guardian of the Public Purse
Finance essentials, budget setting, and the precept. - Council Powers and Duties
What councils must do—and what they can do. - Meetings and Governance
Standing orders, key documents, and meeting protocols. - Employing Staff
Responsibilities as an employer. - Code of Conduct & Interests
Maintaining integrity and transparency.
By the end of the two Introduction to being a Councillor session as a Councillor you will:
- Have a clear understanding of your role as a councillor and the context in which you operate.
- Know the rules governing councils, councillors, staff, and employers.
- Understand the legislative and regulatory framework that ensures compliance.
- Be confident in meetings and appreciate the importance of good governance.
Who Should Attend?
This course is recommended for all councillors—whether you are new to the role or looking to refresh your knowledge.
Course Tutors:
Ann C Wood LL.B., Cert. HE, DMS, PIALC, CouncilWise
Ann has worked as a parish clerk since 1996, with small, medium and large councils throughout the County. Over that period, she has also worked as a locum clerk and/or advisor to many other Essex Councils. She has worked as a tutor for the parish council sector and holds a C&G Certificate in training adults. Ann has been working for the last seven years as an Internal Auditor to councils of all sizes.
Ann is also a parish councillor at Black Notley Parish Council and has also been the Chair of the Council. Ann is the current Chair of the Greens Committee, Chair of the Personnel Committee and is the Emergency Planning representative. Ann is currently the Tree Warden for the parish of Black Notley. Ann has been a member of the ICCM for many years and is also a member of the Internal Audit Forum.
Chair, Cllr Judith Farr
Judith was a civil servant with the Department of Work and Pensions, having worked there since she left university.
Judith has been Chair of Stebbing Parish Council since May 2019, along with other Councillors Judith was re-elected (uncontested) in 2023 and remains Chair of the Parish Council. Judith is on the Highways Committee, member of the Village Hall Committee, member of the Stebbing Neighbourhood Steering Group.
Judith is a regular volunteer in the Community Village Shop but also chair of the village shop committee.
Date of Courses & Location:
Set 1
4th June – Session 1 – 10.00am – 4.00pm – Great Dunmow
11th June – Session 2 – 10.00am – 3.30pm – Great Dunmow
Set 2
28th September – Session 1 – 10.00am – 4.00pm – Great Dunmow
5th October – Session 2 – 10.00am – 3.30pm – Great Dunmow
Cost of Courses: Subscribers £90.00 + VAT per day / Non-Subscribers £108.00 + VAT per day
A light lunch & refreshments will be provided on each day.
How to book: Please fill out the following booking form and send to- pearlwillcox@councilwise.co.uk.