Introduction
Although this is not a statement of statutory responsibilities, it is concerned with a common understanding of the broad principles by which Governors should operate.
General
Governors have responsibility for the policies, plans and procedures within which the school operates. This means they determine, monitor and keep under review such issues. Governors should recognise that the Head Teacher is responsible for the implementation of policy, day to day management of the school and delivery of the curriculum.
All Governors are appointed with equal status. Their central and common concern should be the welfare of the school as a whole.
Governors have a duty to act fairly and without prejudice at all times. The overall good of the school will always override Governors' personal feelings and individual concerns.
As they share responsibility for the employment of staff, Governors should fulfil all reasonable expectations of a good employer.
Governors should consider carefully how their decisions might effect other schools.
The Governing Body should recognise that it is accountable to parents and the local authority for its decisions.
Commitment
Being a Governor requires the commitment of significant amounts of time and energy. Individuals should have regard to this when agreeing to serve.
All Governors should involve themselves actively in the work of the Governing Body and accept a fair share of responsibilities, including service on Committees and Working Parties.
Regular attendance at meetings of the full Governing Body, Committees and Working Parties is essential.
Governors should know the school well and take all possible opportunities for involvement in school activities including contact with pupils.
Relationships
Governors should operate as a team in which constructive working relationships lead to effective governance.
Governors should develop effective working relationships with Head Teachers, staff and parent groups, Local Authority and other relevant agencies, where appropriate.
Confidentiality
Although decisions reached at Governors' meetings are normally made public through the minutes, the discussions on which the decisions were based should be regarded as confidential.
Individual Governors should observe complete confidentiality relating to matters concerning staff or pupils and any other matters agreed by the Governing Body.
Governors should exercise the highest degree of caution when involved in sensitive issues arising outside the Governing Body, which may have an impact on the work of the Governing Body or the operation of the school.
Conduct
Governors should express their views openly within meetings but accept collective responsibility for all decisions.
Apart from very specific instances for the Chair, Governors should recognise that they have no individual powers and should only speak or act on behalf of the Governing Body when specifically authorised.
All Governors' visits to schools should be within a framework, which has been established by the Governing Body and agreed with the Head Teacher.
Governors should establish and then follow procedures for responding to criticism or complaint relating to the school.
Any concern or possible criticism about the school should be discussed with the Head Teacher in the first instance.
Governors should take every opportunity to maintain and develop the ethos and reputation of the school.
