Surveys can help parents and staff feel included in decision-making
As a governing board, you need to have a full understanding of the views and needs of all stakeholders, including:
- Pupils
- Staff
- Parents and carers
- Local communities
You're expected to have mechanisms that enable you to listen, understand and respond to the voices of your stakeholders. This is according to section 1.2 of the academy trust governance guide and section 2.3 of the maintained school governance guide.
Parent and staff surveys can be an effective way of getting feedback on a variety of subjects.
For more ideas on how to listen to and communicate with stakeholders, see our article on tips to boost engagement with parents and other stakeholders.
Is a survey the best option?
Once you've decided you want feedback from parents/carers or staff on something, discuss whether a survey is the most appropriate format. You need to be clear why you’re doing it and what value it will add.
Consider: