Local Governance

Circle Model for Local Governance – Four Rivers MAT

A circle model of school governance is a governance structure whereby the governing board or trust board conducts most of its business through the full board, rather than delegating regular oversight to several standing committees, such as finance, curriculum or staffing etc. Instead, the board meets as a single decision-making body and considers the full range of strategic, educational, financial and compliance matters together.

Under this model, governors or trustees may still take on link roles or be asked to undertake specific monitoring activity, such as visiting the school to discuss safeguarding, SEND, or other matters; however, these activities are usually commissioned by the full board, have a clear purpose, and are reported back formally. The individual governor or trustee does not make decisions on behalf of the board unless specific delegated authority has been agreed.

The circle model is intended to support a more integrated approach to governance, wherein board members maintain a shared understanding of the school’s priorities, risks, performance, and statutory responsibilities. It can also reduce duplication, improve communication, and ensure that decisions are made with a holistic view of the school’s context.

The board should normally make decisions collectively in the full meeting. Any smaller working group, link visit or panel should be commissioned by the board, have a clear remit, report back formally, and avoid becoming a standing committee by default. Some panels may still be required or advisable for matters such as complaints, staffing, or pay etc., depending on the school’s constitution, trust scheme of delegation and local procedures.

To be effective, the model requires a well-planned annual agenda, high-quality reports, clear delegation arrangements, and disciplined meeting practice. The planner below enables governors to map their annual schedule of business.

Local Governing Boards should be made up of between 7 and 11 governors. Staff representation should be limited to one member other than the head teacher, parents should be represented on the board as well as co-opted representataives who can offer a skillset to support the development of the school and act as acritical friend. The board should have a Chair and Vice Chair – this cannot be a staff member.

Following feedback from colleagues across all schools Chairs of LGB will be invited to the January Trust Board Away Day – if the Chair cannot attend a representative from the LGB will be encouraged to attend.

The Trust will provide briefing papers termly in advance of LGB meetings including a report from the CEO.

The CEO will attend summer term meetings across all schools in person.