Governance basics glossary
The key governance terms you'll encounter, including roles on the board, school types, meeting procedures and key documents. Plus, a downloadable version to share with new governors.
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Not sure who everyone is in your school? Use our handy cheat sheet to help you get to grips with all the roles in your school.
Term Definition Associate members Appointed to a committee for their expertise in a particular area. They are not considered governors. They can serve on committees, where they have full voting rights. They can attend full governing board meetings, but can't vote at them. Clerk Employed to provide effective administration of meetings, such as circulating meeting agendas and taking minutes. Advises the governing board on governance procedures and good practice. Chair The governor elected to lead the governing board's work, chair meetings and work closely with the headteacher. Company secretary Employed in some academies to handle certain legal, financial and administrative tasks for the board. The most recent funding agreements don't require academies to have one. Link governor A member of the governing board that is appointed to monitor a specific aspect of the school's work. Members Sit above the board of trustees in an
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- Finance glossary
- Finance training for governors and trustees
- How to induct a new governor or trustee effectively
- Induction training for governors and trustees
- Keeping a record of governor training
- Mentor to a new governor: role
- Ofsted glossary for governors
- Performance data glossary
- Safeguarding training for governors: guidance
- Safer recruitment training: statutory requirements
- SEND glossary
- Staffing and HR glossary
- Training for governors
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