The constitution of an LGB is set out in the Articles of Association for the Trust. The LGBs act as committees of the Trustee Board. Governors, although not themselves Trustees, act at the local level on behalf of Board with delegated responsibilities.
The Trustee Board has complete discretion regarding the scope of delegated responsibilities which they define in the Scheme of Delegation. The Board remains legally responsible and accountable for all statutory functions, however, and works closely with the Executive Team and individual LGBs to assess the progress of each school and to ensure they are satisfied that individual LGBs can successfully carry out the responsibilities delegated to them.
The Trustee Board maintains a direct link to each LGB within the Trust through a nominated Trustee link. LGBs are able to raise issues they feel need to be escalated to the Trustee Board through this direct consultation.
The LGB will usually meet twice a term focussing appropriately on Curriculum and Standards, and Finance and Resources. It may form committees as required and, be responsible for reviewing its own effectiveness against the delegated responsibilities. An annual plan for LGB activities will be created to ensure that all areas of delegated responsibility are addressed by the LGB during an academic year.
More broadly, there is also a standard Terms of Reference document outlining the constitution and authority of individual LGBs across the Trust.
Scheme of Delegation
Designated roles
Some Governors will be given particular roles within the LGB. Most commonly these relate to Safeguarding, Health and Safety, Special Educational Needs, Early Years Foundation Stage (where applicable), Educational Performance (including specific cohorts, such as Pupil Premium, SEN, male/female) and Sixth Form. Governors might also be asked to work in specific key subject areas within their school. Governors will be given training in these roles and are supported by the LGB Chair and Trust Governance service.