Governors and trustees supplying schools with goods or services

Find out how to manage conflicts of interest if you’re buying a governor's or trustee's goods or services. If you're an academy trust, understand the rules around managing related party transactions.

Last reviewed on 30 July 2024See updates
Ref: 41726
Contents
  1. Manage any conflicts of interest 
  2. Definition of a ‘related party’ 
  3. Managing related party transactions

Manage any conflicts of interest 

Governing boards in maintained schools can pay for goods or services provided by someone who's serving on the board.

However, the individual must not put themselves in a position where their personal interests conflict with their duty unless they're authorised to do so.

If there's a conflict, your board should assure itself that the procurement transaction: 

  • Is in the school's best interests
  • Will better help it achieve its purposes

Your board must:

  • Manage, and be seen to manage, any conflicts of interest that may arise
  • Be open and accountable to those with an interest
  • Consider the advantages and disadvantages of using the goods and services

This is set out in section 4.11.2 of the maintained schools governance guide.

Make sure the relevant governor isn't part of the procurement process for any