The LGB works in partnership with the Headteacher and school leadership team, offering insight from a community perspective while holding the school accountable for delivering high-quality education. 

It helps us to: 

• Be more informed with our strategic thinking and decision making as we gather information at school level 
• Ensure there is challenge and support from those that understand the school’s context 
• Ensure governance is more diverse 
• Ensure there is active engagement between the school and its wider community 
• Remain grounded in the realities of the local communities that we serve and the challenges they face 

The primary areas of focus for local governance includes Standards, Safeguarding, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and Stakeholder Engagement 

1. Standards

The LGB is responsible for monitoring school performance and improvement, ensuring that pupils receive a high-quality education and achieve positive outcomes, including: 

• Reviewing performance data by examining key indicators such as attainment and progress, attendance rates and behaviour trends to evaluate school effectiveness 
• Working with leaders to identify areas for development and supporting innovation and improvements 
• Holding leadership to account by ensuring senior leaders are effectively addressing areas for improvement and implementing strategic objectives. 

2. Safeguarding 

The LGB has a role in ensuring that all pupils and staff are safe and that the school fosters a culture of safeguarding. This involves: 

• Ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies and procedures and monitoring its effectiveness. 
• Appointing a Link Governor for Safeguarding to provide specific oversight and challenge. Establishing an effective and supportive working relationship with the DSL 
• Reviewing safeguarding arrangements through reporting mechanisms to ensure that all statutory requirements are met and that safeguarding remains a high priority. 
• Championing a culture of safeguarding 

3. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) 

The LGB plays an essential role in ensuring that pupils with SEND receive the necessary support to thrive. Responsibilities include: 

• Overseeing SEND provision - Holding leaders to account for ensuring that adequate resources, training, and interventions are in place for pupils with additional needs. 
• Monitoring inclusivity - Ensuring that pupils with SEND are fully included in school life and have equitable access to learning opportunities. 
• Appointing a Link Governor for SEND to oversee this area, establish a professional relationship with the SENCO and ensure compliance with statutory duties. 

4. Stakeholder Engagement 

Engaging with the wider school community is a key function of the LGB. It ensures that decisions made at a school and trust level reflect the needs and aspirations of key stakeholders, including pupils, parents, staff, and the local community. The LGB’s role includes: 

• Ensuring effective communication channels are in place so that stakeholders feel heard and valued. 
• Collaborating with the wider community to promote the school’s vision and enhance its reputation. 
• Receiving information about how stakeholders view the school 

Governance is supported by the Board of Trustees, details of which can be found here.

Further information about Governance, the role of the Board of Trustees, their attendance, and the register of interests can be viewed here.