The School-Ready Governor

Book excerpt: The School-Ready Governor is a practical and insightful guide to the fundamentals of school governance for new and aspiring governors, and includes the history, frameworks, theory and practice. Healthy governance is fundamental to effective school leadership, but how deeply is governance really understood? This book digs into what governance actually is and will help aspiring school leaders, new governors and new trustees for all schools and phases to grapple with their strategic role and gain confidence in how best to support their school. The School-Ready Governor contains clear and insightful explanations relating to key aspects of governance, with case studies, reflective questions and takeaway summaries throughout. The book is broken down into five sections, each exploring a key aspect of governance: - A history of governance and governance theory - Setting a vision and ways of working, exploring more diverse governance and inclusive practice - The practicalities of governance, such as key documentation, communication and school improvement - Key knowledge, behaviours and practice, including HR and personnel, staff wellbeing and safeguarding - Essential aspects of a school, including curriculum and pedagogy, assessment and data, finance and resourcing, and risk management. Written by an experienced school leader and governor, this book is perfect for anyone considering a move into primary or secondary school leadership or school governance.