THE NEVILLE LOVETT COMMUNITY SCHOOL
GOVERNORS’ VISITS TO THE SCHOOL POLICY (NON STATUTORY)
Introduction and Context The role and responsibilities of governors are clarified and strengthened by national legislation. It is recognised that Governors have a general responsibility for the effective management of the school, acting within the framework set by legislation and the policies of the LEA. But thy are not expected to take detailed decisions about day- today running of the school and do not have any rights of access to the school. We recognise, however, that in order to gain an understanding of the educational process at Neville Lovett School, governors need to visit the school and build relationships with departmental teams. Governors are, therefore, welcomed in the school. They are encouraged to observe the school at work and to improve their knowledge of the school, its staff, needs, priorities, strengths and weaknesses. Over the years the school has come to value the positive relationships established with the school governors. Aims • • •
To observe the learning process To establish relationships of mutual respect To gain an understanding of how departments work
Before Visits This policy acknowledges the ‘Protocol for Governors’ Visits’ as published in the Manual for Governing Bodies and their Clerks – 2003. Visits should be arranged through contact with the Clerk to the governors, who will liaise with the relevant Head of Department.
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Governors should have a clear focus and purpose for visits. Past practice indicates that these often stem, either from discussions in committee or through the informal contacts that Governors have with teaching staff. A preliminary visit to meet with the Head of Department is always desirable. Departmental staffing issues can be discussed and a timetable for subsequent meetings agreed. Governors are asked to be mindful not to intrude too much on teachers’ and support staff’s time. Governors should read relevant departmental improvement plans and Ofsted Reports. Governors should always agree their role within classrooms and/or in the staff room prior to their visit with the Head of Department concerned. Governors should ensure that they are familiar with Health and Safety procedures including what to do in the event of a fire. During Visits We acknowledge that to be proscriptive is difficult. Sufficient to say that if governors see something that worries them they are advised to discuss this first with their contact for the visit. Any lasting concerns that they have about teaching, the standard of work or class behaviour during visits should be given in writing to the Headteacher. Visiting governors should always introduce themselves. Governors are encouraged to talk to pupils and teachers about the work if appropriate, to look, observe and take an interest in the environment. If visiting lessons governors should stay for a whole lesson and never distract attention away from the lesson objectives. Governors should be mindful not to be drawn into issues or individual matters that should, in the day-to-day business of the school, be deal with by senior management. After a Visit Governors are expected to give a brief report to the relevant committee. The clerk should ensure that details, specifically the date, focus and time spent in school, are minuted. Monitoring The Governors’ Personnel Committee reviews issues arising from this policy. Signed: ………………………………………………………. Date: …………………………… Elizabeth Webb, Chairman of Governors
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