Governance review (standard) for maintained schools/federations and stand-alone academies (SATs)

The governance review is suitable for any governing board and will provide an invaluable assessment of strengths and weaknesses regardless of where you are on the ‘Ofsted cycle’.

During a one day visit an experienced governance adviser will spend time talking to the head, the chair of governors, the clerk and at least one recently appointed governor. A range of paperwork will also be examined and scrutinised. Within ten working days of the visit you will receive a report with the findings of this review.

The review covers:

• Assessing the effectiveness of the leadership of your governing board including the constitution and governance instruments
• How effectively your governing board understands its strategic role and can demonstrate evidence of this
• How clearly the governing board understands the strengths and weaknesses of the school
• How effectively the governing board holds the headteacher to account for the performance of the school, and how well the practice of ‘support and challenge’ is demonstrated
• The efficiency of the clerking arrangements
• The effectiveness of governing board meetings
• The effectiveness of delegation and the working of committees and/or lead governors

Additionally for stand-alone academies (SATs):

• Trustees are clear on their role and responsibilities as a charity trustee and company director
  
• Trustees are familiar and compliant with the requirements relating to their additional financial responsibilities
  
• The Trust is compliant with risk management requirements

Read about our Enhanced Review here.