- Local Governing bodies (LGB) have an important role to play in our schools. We value their contribution and are proud of the passion they have for their schools and community. Within a trust, governor time is freed up to focus on teaching and learning and the school’s community. Much of the financial accountability is removed, alongside other administrative tasks such as policy writing, although there will be regular communication and the opportunity to share ideas. To facilitate this there will be termly meetings between headteachers, Chairs of Governors and the Chair/ Vice Chair of the Trust, enhancing communication to and from the board and allowing LGB’s to influence decisions and share their experiences to support sound judgement.
- DMAT will attend at least one Local Governing Body meeting per year. We believe it is important to maintain strong communication and open and honest relationships.
- There are central training opportunities available for everyone involved in governance. This significantly reduces workload for the Chair of Governors and Headteacher.
- During the conversion process, DMAT will give clear advice and full support to minimise work for governors and the school.
- OFSTED preparation for governing bodies
- Summer term – Annual Trust Network Meeting for SLTs, and Governors
- Support for governing bodies will be available from the DMAT central team and through our legal/HR SLA’s with external partners.
- Membership of professional bodies/sector bodies is included for all schools. Governing bodies can access a range of resources through our subscriptions to organisations such as CST, The Key, Optimus Education, The NGA.
- Policies take a huge amount of time, they often need to be regularly reviewed and updated, taking into account the most recent legislative changes. Many existing school policies become trust policies, advice will be available for any remaining school specific policies.
- DMAT has a strong professional relationship with unions and professional associations. We are proud of this and will encourage positive relationships in all of our schools. Members of the trust team will always attend union engagement meetings if necessary/appropriate.
