Governance Governance
Governance Professional – Annette Towgood
‘We offer proficient administrative support, expert guidance and advice to Members, Trustees and Governors of the schools, ensuring correct governance procedures are adhered to and seeking methods to improve governance. We will guarantee statutory duties are met whilst ensuring the workload relevant to each governance volunteer role is appropriate and manageable.’
In the school Trust’s intricate network, the Governance Team, led by the Governance Professional, embodies a steadfast commitment to excellence and progress. With determination and trustworthiness as their guiding principles, this team navigates challenges and steers the Trust toward its goals with unwavering resolve. Each member is held in high esteem for their integrity, honesty, and reliability, understanding the weight of the responsibilities entrusted to them and approaching their duties with sincerity and transparency.
Collaboration is fundamental to the Governance Team’s approach, recognizing the power of collective wisdom in driving positive change. Actively seeking input from diverse stakeholders enriches decision-making processes, fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Moreover, openness to change defines the team, embracing innovation and adaptability in response to evolving needs and circumstances. They remain agile and responsive, exploring new ideas, approaches, and technologies to keep the Trust at the forefront of educational excellence and innovation.
Effectiveness marks the Governance Team’s leadership, with a focus on setting clear goals, establishing robust systems, and monitoring progress diligently. Their collective expertise and strategic vision drive meaningful outcomes, ensuring the Trust’s resources are used efficiently and effectively to maximise value for all stakeholders. Additionally, the team prioritises supportiveness, cultivating a culture of empathy and mutual respect to ensure everyone feels valued, empowered, and inspired to succeed within the Trust.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring the organisation complies with relevant laws, regulations, and policies.
- Filing Requirements: Managing the timely submission of statutory returns, filings, and other regulatory documents.
- Governance Code: Ensuring adherence to corporate governance codes and standards
- Board Meetings: Organizing and coordinating Trust board meetings, including preparing agendas, collating and distributing board papers, and taking minutes.
- Advisory Role: Advising the Trust board and its committees on governance, risk management, and compliance issues.
- Training and Development: Facilitating ongoing education and training for board members on governance and regulatory matters.
Policy Framework: Developing and maintaining governance policies and procedures.
Implementation: Ensuring policies are implemented effectively and consistently across the organisation.
Review and Update: Regularly reviewing and updating governance policies to reflect changes in legislation and best practices.
- Code of Conduct: Developing and promoting the organisation’s code of conduct and ethical standards.
- Whistleblowing: Managing whistleblowing procedures and ensuring protection for whistleblowers.
- Conflict of Interest: Managing conflicts of interest within the organisation.
- Document Management: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, including Trust board minutes and registers.
- Data Protection: Ensuring compliance with data protection laws and managing data governance policies
- Governance Strategy: Providing strategic advice on governance structures and practices to support the organisation’s objectives.
- Best Practices: Keeping abreast of governance trends and best practices, and advising the board accordingly.
- Performance Evaluation: Facilitating board and committee performance evaluations and implementing improvements based on findings.