Governance basics glossary

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 School type 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.  Maintained schools, but academies can have them too 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. Both Chair The governor elected to lead the governing board's work, chair meetings and work closely with the headteacher.  Both 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.  Academies Link governor A member of the governing board that is appointed to monitor a specific aspect