Reviews of governance
We recognise the critical role effective governance plays in shaping the trajectory of schools and trusts. Our service goes beyond the conventional, delving deep into your governance structure to identify strengths, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
Why is this process important? In an era where educational institutions are constantly adapting to changes and new challenges, having a robust governance framework is essential. Our Service acts as a compass, guiding your board towards informed decisions and efficient operations. We conduct a comprehensive assessment, analysing governance procedures, accountability mechanisms, and compliance standards.
Our tailored approach ensures that your school's unique needs and challenges are addressed, resulting in actionable recommendations that pave the way for enhanced governance practices.
Internal Scrutiny of Governance
If your board oversees schools within an academy trust, an internal scrutiny review of governance can provide independent assurance to the board that governance is compliant and effective.
Our experienced consultants will review processes and mechanisms in place to assess the functionality of your board as well as any committees or Local Governing Board(s), if relevant. Our approach will include:
- meetings with key personnel
- scrutiny of key documentation e.g. board minutes, scheme of delegation, Academy development plans, policy documents etc.
- A full report of the findings.
Get in touch to discuss the requirements for your school or trust by calling 01603 303355 or emailing governor.services@norfolk.gov.uk
External Reviews of Governance (ERG)
While not mandated by law, routine external reviews are instrumental in board development. The Academy Trust Handbook (ATH) strongly advocates routine external reviews. The charity governance code recommends a triennial frequency, and an ERG is strongly recommended preceding significant shifts like academy conversion or trust expansion. After an Ofsted inspection, a recommended external review should be promptly arranged.
An ERG will enable your board to discover strengths and areas for enhancement from an impartial standpoint. We will evaluate the effectiveness of your governance processes and systems, assuring compliance and making recommendations for efficiencies.
Our reviewers will assess your board based on the Governance Handbook's six pillars; Strategic Leadership; Accountability; People; Structures; Compliance; Evaluation.
We can also map your governance against the DfE Trust Quality Descriptors and Academy Trust Governance Code if required.
By working closely with your board, senior leaders, and Clerk or Senior Leaders, we will review communication and decision-making. In a multi-academy trust (MAT), our ERG extends across the entire spectrum of governance. We will assess the interaction between the central team and local governing bodies (LGBs) and review key documentation:
- Scheme of Delegation
- Articles of Association
- Charitable objects
- Board minutes
Get in touch to discuss the requirements for your school or trust by calling 01603 303355 or emailing governor.services@norfolk.gov.uk