Staff roles, structures & change

Reorganising staff in a school is different to restructuring in other organisations. As governors, you won't manage this process, but read the key rules and requirements here so you can support your headteacher effectively.

Be clear on how to make sure your headteacher has a smooth departure and how you can help maintain effective leadership following their exit. Use our template letter to share the news with parents and carers.

Major restructures are strategic and part of your remit as a governor or trustee. Learn to challenge the need for a restructure and how to scrutinise plans. Also find questions to ask and get tips on supporting your headteacher or senior leader through the process.

Take a look at how school staffing structures can vary with our examples from a range of primary schools.

Use our list of positions and responsibilities that maintained schools and academies are legally obliged to fill, to check you're compliant.

Be clear on who the DSL can be and what their responsibilities are.

Be clear on who the SENCO can be in your school, and find out what their responsibilities are and how you're involved.