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The governing board : Constitution & membership : The constitution of the governing board

The constitution of the governing board

  • Associate members: role and restrictions Associate members aren't governors, but you can appoint them to serve on committees and attend meetings. Understand who's eligible to be an associate member and what their rights are.
  • Co-opted governors/trustees: role Understand the role of a co-opted governor/co-opted trustee with guidance on who is eligible to be appointed, and what restrictions there are on voting in meetings.
  • Governor and trustees' terms of office How long is a governor’s term of office? Governors and trustees are usually appointed for 4 years, although this can be varied. We look at how to do this, and when terms of office begin.
  • Parent governor/trustee: role Learn how to separate your role as a governor from your role as a parent, so you can manage your relationship with other parents and do your job well.
  • Reconstituting the governing board (maintained) You should reconstitute your board if things aren't going well or to ensure you're fit for purpose in the future. Read more about when to reconstitute, terms of office, voting on new governors, managing surplus governors and electing a new chair and vice-chair.
  • Size and membership of your governing board Be clear on the type and number of governors or trustees you must have.
  • Staff governors: role Understand your responsibilities as a staff governor in a maintained school, and the restrictions on the scope of your role. Also find out what the governing board can do if you can't make it to meetings.