Governing Board Self-evaluation

A key question for all governing boards is whether they are making the best possible contribution to the effectiveness of their school and securing the best outcomes for all pupils. We recommend that governing boards undertake a self-evaluation annually. This enables boards to recognise their strengths, identify where they have made a positive impact, and highlight areas for further development. It also provides an opportunity to ensure that governors receive the information, reports, and support they need to fulfil their strategic role effectively.

Using a structured approach to self-evaluation allows boards to reflect on their culture and ways of working, the effectiveness of their governance structures, compliance with statutory requirements, delivery of their core functions, and their overall impact on school improvement.

The National Governance Association (NGA) updated its 21 Questions for Governing Boards resource in 2022. Originally developed in partnership with The Key and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Education Governance, the questions continue to provide a recognised framework for effective governance in maintained schools and academies. Supporting guidance and self-evaluation resources are available through the NGA. There is currently no requirement for maintained schools to submit governing board self-evaluation documentation to the Local Authority.

Boards may also wish to complement their self-evaluation by:

• Undertaking a governor skills audit.
• Reviewing strengths and development needs against the Governor Competency Framework.
• Conducting 360-degree reviews of individual governors, committee chairs, or the chair of the board.

Using governance evaluation tools available through governance support providers, including GovernorHub.

Useful Links

NGA 21 Questions for Governing Boards

NGA Governance Self-Review Resources

Maintained Schools: Governance Guide (DfE)

Get Information About Schools (GIAS)

External Reviews of Governance

An External Review of Governance can provide an objective assessment of governing board effectiveness, identifying strengths, areas for development, and the impact governance is having on the school. Reviews should be undertaken by an experienced governance professional who is independent of both the school and the governing board.

While there is no statutory requirement for maintained schools to commission an External Review of Governance, many boards find them valuable in supporting continuous improvement, succession planning, and strategic development. External reviews can be particularly helpful following significant changes in governance, leadership transitions, or where the board wishes to gain independent assurance regarding its effectiveness.

If your board is considering commissioning an External Review of Governance, please contact the Buckinghamshire Governance Team at:

Email: schoolgovernance@buckinghamshire.gov.uk to discuss how we can support you.