Responsibilities of a Governing Body

A governing body of a maintained school acts as the school’s strategic leadership team, with duties defined through education legislation and national guidance.  Its responsibilities include:

1. Setting the School's Strategic Direction
   Governing bodies are responsible for the School's strategic framework, including long-term vision, aims and priorities.  They monitor progress and ensure the curriculum is broad, balanced and aligned with these priorities.
    
2. Promoting High Standards of Education
   They set performance targets and promote high standards of teaching, learning and pupil achievement.  This includes evaluating the impact of the school's curriculum and monitoring the progress of all pupil groups.
    
3. Acting as a Critical Friend
   Governing bodies provide support while also constructively challenging school leaders.  They offer advice, ask questions, scrutinise proposals, and help refine decisions to achieve the best outcomes for pupils and staff.
    
4. Ensuring Accountability
   They hold the Co-Head teachers to account for the day‑to‑day operational running of the school and ensure the school’s performance is monitored and reported to parents and the wider community.
    
5. Oversight of Finance and Resources 
   Governing bodies make key decisions regarding the school budget, staffing structure, and use of resources.  They ensure that public money is used efficiently, providing value for money and supporting the school’s strategic goals.
    
6. Compliance with Legal and Statutory Duties
   This includes ensuring adherence to statutory requirements in areas such as:
   Safeguarding and child protection
   Health and safety
   Employment legislation
    
7. Developing and Reviewing School Policies 
   They approve and periodically review mandatory school policies, ensuring they reflect legislation and best practice.
    
8. Supporting Inclusive Education 
   Governing bodies ensure the school meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).  They monitor the effectiveness of provision and ensure legal duties are met.
    
9. Oversight of Staffing 
   Whilst the Co-Head teachers manages day‑to‑day staffing, the governing body has decision‑making powers over key staffing matters, including structure, recruitment of senior leaders, and some disciplinary or appeals panels.
    
10. Working in Partnership 
    Governing bodies collaborate closely with:
    The Co-Head teachers and senior leadership team
    The local authority
    Parents, carers, and the community
    This partnership ensures the school operates effectively and maintains strong governance.