The governing body is responsible for the conduct of the school, with a view to promoting high standards of educational achievement (Section 21, Education Act 2002).
Governing bodies of Church schools are also responsible for upholding the Christian character of the school.
The governing body is a charitable corporate entity and acts as a group. Each governor is a Charity trustee and a holder of a public office, working as an individual within the team. Once decisions are made by the group, individuals are bound by them. Each governor must respect the confidentiality of the other members in relation to their voting or individual opinions, and also the confidentiality of those items of business that the governing body has designated as confidential.
The duties of charity trustees may be accessed by clicking here.
Governors should work under the Seven Principles of Public Life (established by the Nolan Committee in 1996) These are set out below.
Selflessness
Holders of public office should take decisions solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits from themselves, their family or friends.
Integrity
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.
Objectivity
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merits.
Accountability
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
Openness
Holders of public office should be as open as possible about the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
Honesty
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interests.
Leadership
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.
Many schools have incorporated these principles into a Code of Conduct for Governors.