Inclusion: role of the link governor

Be clear on your role as the link governor for inclusion, and find out what questions you can ask to challenge and support your school leaders.

Last reviewed on 16 February 2026See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 5300
Contents
  1. Your role 
  2. How to monitor inclusion
  3. Ask questions to help you monitor inclusion

Your role 

As a link governor for inclusion, you'll monitor plans and policies linked to inclusion and check these are being well implemented across the school. (Note: your role might have a different title depending on your context, such as the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) link governor, or the vulnerable groups link governor.)

You'll need to challenge school leaders, to make sure your school is inclusive to:

  • All pupils – especially those from key inclusion groups (see more on this below)
  • Staff
  • Parents and carers
  • The wider community

What do we mean by inclusion?

Diversity organisation Belonging Effect defines inclusion as the achievement of a work environment where all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute to its success.

It's important the whole board understands what Ofsted