Guidance

Producing effective board reports for strong governance: resources

Published 24 September 2025

Applies to England

The importance of high-quality, focused board reporting

The design and delivery of board reports should consider the volunteer status of those in governance. Effective reports:

• are short and sharp, with insight and not too much operational detail
• are sent out in sufficient time (at least one week ahead) to allow board members to read and reflect on content
• have a clear summary that gives a starting point for strategic discussion
• provide appendices or background materials for those who wish to explore further

For the executive, the ability to create a focused report to clarify messages, insights and implications contributes to stronger executive thinking and decision-making.

DfE has the following guidance on creating effective board reports:

• Maintained schools governance guide section 3.1 – guidance on effective headteacher reporting and evaluation of information
• Academy trust governance guide section 6.1 – an overview of strategic oversight and processes to support the sharing of relevant information (for example, board reports)

Writing an effective board report

Board reports are purposeful and intentional in what they ask of the governing body or academy trust board. Effective reports:

• share information
• clarify decisions, risks or strategic considerations requiring board input or oversight
• explain the process that has been used to arrive at and challenge any proposals prior to presenting them to the board

The importance of sharing information

It is important that relevant feedback and information is exchanged across the governance and leadership structure. This is vital for well-rounded and accurate reporting that reflects the experience and needs of all internal stakeholders.

Identifying risks and strategic priorities

Being clear about risk is important for effective reporting. Understanding which risks are being addressed, explicitly and in context, supports the board’s role in oversight and assurance. 

Progress on strategic priorities should be transparently and consistently communicated. Reports need to provide a clear view of what is on track, what is delayed and where attention may be needed to enable the governing body or academy trust board to maintain strategic focus over time.

Assurance provided is evidence-based, and supported by strong data and internal and external benchmarking.

Resources: effective board reporting

Academy trust governance code – focuses on oversight and reporting arrangements in principle 4.1.

Next-gen governance – guidance on tech-savvy, solutions-focused governance for academy trusts.

School and trust board reporting templates: headteacher reports for single schools and academy trust board reports for trusts.

Effective board reporting – approaches to board reporting, including a case study.