Sir David Carter (National Schools Commissioner) writes about governors and trustees in the latest Times Education Supplement.
Sir David defines governors and trustees as the “unsung heroes of the education system” and goes on to say that “effective governance lies at the heart of school improvement.”
Throughout the article he provides views on what effective governance looks like, including recruitment being based on the right skills, knowledge and experience; the need for continual reassessment of the expertise and capacity of the board and the importance of the ongoing development of governors and trustees.
Sir David also emphasises the importance of accountability in “establishing strong working relationships, particularly between executive leaders, heads and their boards”, specifying how the board should be improving outcomes for the most disadvantaged learners by asking challenging questions and using data. Also explored is the need for a clear vision that is “determined at board level and co-constructed with executive leaders” and which connects with “the daily experience of children.”
Finally, the need for induction training for new governors and trustees is stressed. Any schools wishing for support in these areas should contact Governance Services at school.governors@haringey.gov.uk
Read the full article here (external link)