School governing bodies are involved in many aspects of school life. A range of policies and legal requirements guides their work.
A governing body is responsible for raising standards. This is carried out through three key roles:
- setting strategic direction
- ensuring accountability
- monitoring and evaluating school performance
A governing body must also act as "critical friend" to the headteacher, who has responsibility for the day to day management of the school.
Governing bodies meet three times a year to discuss general business. Committees are appointed from the members of the governing body and these meet separately throughout the year.