Log inRegisterStart your free trial
GovernorHub Knowledge logo
  • Training
  • News briefing
  • Policy bank
GovernorHub
  • The governing board
  • Roles on the governing board
  • Chair of the governing board

'Chair's action': your power to act in cases of urgency

As a chair, be clear when you might use the 'chair's action' to make urgent decisions on your board's behalf, and see examples of how other schools do it.

Last reviewed on 29 July 2024See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 4299
Contents
  1. Only use it for urgent duties that can't wait
  2. How to activate this power
  3. You can use it for functions that can be delegated to an individual
  4. There are some actions you can't take alone
  5. Examples from schools
The KeyHomeWhy choose us?TrustsPricingStart your free trialJoin The Key
ExploreLeadersSafeguardingCPDGovernorHubKeyGPT
CompanyAboutCareersBlogThe Key Group
ContactGet in touch0800 061 4500Help centre

© The Key | Company: 08268303 | 0800 061 4500 | Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibilityCookies

Only use it for urgent duties that can't wait

You can act on the governing board's behalf to deal with urgent issues where it's not possible for the board to meet (either in-person or virtually).

An urgent case is when you believe that not acting now will be seriously detrimental to:

  • Your school, or
  • Any pupil or their parent, or
  • A staff member

Cases of urgency when the chair is absent

  • Maintained schools: if the chair is absent, the vice-chair will have this power
  • Academies: check your articles of association to see if they include whether the vice-chair has this power in the chair's absence

Maintained school governing board chairs You have this power already, but if possible, you should act in consultation with the headteacher. You must report the action you took to the governing board. You should also make sure your governance professional records your actions.  Trust board chairs The trustees need to grant you this

This content is only available to membersUnlock resources, guidance, training and tools for your whole school with a 14 day free trial
Start your free trial
Rate this article
This content is only available to members

Want to continue reading?

Get unlimited access to resources, guidance, training and tools for your whole school
Start your free trial of Whole School membership
No commitment, and no payment details required.