Department For Education
This non-statutory guidance replaces the governance handbook 2019.
This is a reference document for those involved in local-authority-maintained school governance. It brings together essential information from a range of sources on the governing bodys roles and legal responsibilities.
Who should use this manual
This guidance is for:
- governors, senior leaders, governance professionals (clerks) and associate members
- local-authority-maintained schools including maintained special schools and maintained nursery schools, foundation and voluntary schools
- foundations and others such as diocesan authorities with an interest in the governance of schools
- organisations supporting boards to develop effective governance
It does not apply directly to pupil referral units, sixth-form colleges and general further education colleges, though they may find its principles helpful.
Resources for governing bodies
Practical resources for governing bodies are available from sector organisations, including:
- local authority governor services
- National Governance Association
- GovernorHub
- Chartered Governance Institute
- Catholic Education Service
- Church of England Education Office
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What you need to know about legal requirements and resources from third parties.
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Explanations of the terms used in this guidance.
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An overview of the features of effective governance.
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An overview of strategic leadership for maintained schools.
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Holding school leaders to account for the schools educational and financial performance and ensuring money is well spent.
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Information on governance roles, appointments, support and staff well-being.
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An overview of governance structures and how governing bodies must be constituted.
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How regular evaluation can be carried out on the effectiveness of governance and the school's performance.
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Guidance for governing bodies on how to meet its legal and regulatory responsibilities with regards to compliance.
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Information for governing bodies and governance professionals (clerks) on the policies and documents they must have.