This handbook from the Department for Education is essential reading for all school governors and school leaders.
Governors' handbook: for governors in maintained schools, academies and free schools
Synopsis
This handbook from the DfE outlines school governors' roles and duties, along with contact details for GovernorLine. It provides detailed information on the various aspects of governing bodies.
In all types of schools, governing bodies should have a strong focus on three core strategic functions: ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction; holding the head teacher to account for the educational performance of the school, its pupils, and the performance of staff; and overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent.
The handbook first outlines the core role and functions of school governing bodies, it then moves on to summarise the specific legal duties of governing bodies, providing a first point of reference for those with a specific area of interest. The additional further reading signposted in each section provides more detailed information on the legal duties of governing bodies and supporting guidance and resources.