Guidance on the strategic leadership and governance of local-authority-maintained schools.

This non-statutory guidance replaces the governance handbook 2019.

This is a reference document for those involved in local-authority-maintained school governance. It brings together essential information from a range of sources on the governing body’s roles and legal responsibilities.

Who should use this manual

This guidance is for:

  • governors, senior leaders, governance professionals (clerks) and associate members  
  • local-authority-maintained schools including maintained special schools and maintained nursery schools, foundation and voluntary schools 
  • foundations and others such as diocesan authorities with an interest in the governance of schools 
  • organisations supporting boards to develop effective governance

It does not apply directly to pupil referral units, sixth-form colleges and general further education colleges, though they may find its principles helpful.

Resources for governing bodies

Practical resources for governing bodies are available from sector organisations, including:

  • Using this guidance

    What you need to know about legal requirements and resources from third parties.

  • Definitions

    Explanations of the terms used in this guidance.

  • 1. Effective governance

    An overview of the features of effective governance.

  • 2. Strategic leadership

    An overview of strategic leadership for maintained schools.

  • 3. Accountability

    Holding school leaders to account for the school’s educational and financial performance and ensuring money is well spent.

  • 4. People

    Information on governance roles, appointments, support and staff well-being.

  • 5. Governance structures

    An overview of governance structures and how governing bodies must be constituted.

  • 6. Evaluation

    How regular evaluation can be carried out on the effectiveness of governance and the school's performance.

  • 7. Compliance

    Guidance for governing bodies on how to meet its legal and regulatory responsibilities with regards to compliance.

  • Statutory policies for maintained schools

    Information for governing bodies and governance professionals (clerks) on the policies and documents they must have.