North Lincolnshire Association of Governing Bodies (NLAGB)

NGA’s Annual Membership Survey is now open!

Your feedback is essential in helping us understand your needs and making sure your NGA membership is the best it can be. The survey takes just 10-15 minutes, and we encourage all members to participate.

The survey will close on Wednesday 6 November 2024, at 12pm. Don't miss your chance to share your thoughts.

Take the survey!

NGA attends Conservative Party Conference

School funding and SEND were amongst the topics discussed at the Conservative Party Conference fringe events this week. NGA’s deputy chief executive Sam Henson was in attendance and took the opportunity to engage with shadow ministers, delegates and other sector partners. 

Due to the current leadership contest, there were no policy announcements, so the future direction of the party’s education policy remains unclear. However, with the leadership election expected to conclude in early November, we will then commence engagement with the new team of shadow ministers on your behalf. 

Survey reveals impact of cyber security

Just over one third (34%) of schools and colleges in England have experienced a cyber incident during the last academic year, with 20% not recovering immediately and 4% taking more than one half term. This is according to a new poll by Ofqual who are highlighting the risks associated with poor cyber security. 

Other findings revealed that cyber incidents in schools were mostly due to phishing attacks and security breaches which resulted in lost coursework and missing staff resources. In addition, one in three teachers reported not having had cyber security training this year.

See NGA’s cyber security monitoring tool and risk management guidance for help with monitoring your school or trust’s cyber security awareness, controls and response plans, and to identify areas for improvement. 

Report shows a struggle to recruit teaching assistants 

Three-quarters of head teachers found it “fairly” or “extremely” difficult to recruit TAs with this figure rising to 82% for those in leading secondary schools. This is according to a report commissioned by the Department for Education that explored the motivations and experiences of TAs as well as the barriers and enablers to their effective use.

The report also found that over half of secondary and special school leaders planned to increase the number of TAs in the next academic year with the anticipation of rising SEND demand cited as a major reason. Other key messages related to retention with threats to this being low pay and a lack of opportunities for progression.

Governors and trustees can refer to NGA’s guidance on continuing professional development (CPD) to ensure staff development is valued and prioritised.

Working lives of teachers and leaders research report

School teachers and leaders report low levels of wellbeing, dissatisfaction with pay, and that they are increasingly planning to leave the sector. This has been revealed in the latest DfE report into the working lives of teachers and leaders which presents findings of over 10,000 school staff surveyed between February and May 2023.

Teachers and leaders were found to have lower than average wellbeing scores than the rest of the adult population with 88% of teachers and leaders reporting that they had experienced stress in their work, and 63% agreeing that their job negatively affected their mental health.

It also found, over one-third (36%) indicated that they were considering leaving the English state sector for reasons other than retirement, an increase from 25% in 2022.

Governing boards have significant responsibilities to support the wellbeing of all staff employed in their school or trust, including their work-life balance. Visit our knowledge centre to see how you can support this.

Unlock key insights this October

Be sure to join our upcoming events, tailored to enhance your governance expertise. From networking opportunities to financial management techniques and MAT growth strategies, these sessions offer essential insights and collaboration opportunities for your development.

7 October Local Associations Network

Network with peers and discuss local issues and solutions within your association.

10 October  Governance Leadership Forum: Overcoming Financial Challenges

Explore financial management techniques tailored for single schools to enhance fiscal responsibility and efficiency.

15 October. LA partners Network

We are pleased to host our annual Local Authority partners event, exclusive to those who include one or more of our services in their governance support packages. This is an exciting opportunity to discuss and share knowledge and expertise.

24 October  Webinar: Navigating MAT Growth – Opportunities, Risks, and Strategic Decisions for Trust Boards

Considering expanding your trust? Join NGA’s Michael Barton and Deputy CEO Sam Henson as they discuss the benefits and risks of MAT growth, informed by this year’s annual governance survey results.

See all our upcoming events on our events page.

Labour Conference: Key takeaways and roundup

Welcome to Governance Live: autumn sessions open for bookings

Changes to the School Inspection Handbook

This academic year has introduced several changes to how schools are inspected. Ofsted has removed single headline grades, replacing them with four grades across the existing subcategories: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.

Ofsted has also introduced a “suspend and return” approach for safeguarding concerns, allowing schools time to address issues before a final judgment is made. A further key change is that schools will now be notified of upcoming inspections at approximately 2pm on the Monday of the week that the inspection is scheduled to begin.

Details of the updates are can be found in the new School Inspection Handbook, which includes responses from The Big Listen, as well as Ofsted’s ‘summary of changes’ document. We encourage all governing boards to carefully review the updated handbook.

In our latest blog NGA’s Deputy Chief Executive, Sam Henson, shares NGA's thoughts on the latest Ofsted changes and what boards need to know about the changes.  

Development for Chairs: Elevate your governance skills

Are you a current or aspiring MAT or SAT chair looking to enhance your board leadership skills?

Our specialist programme will help you lead confidently and ensure effective governance for your trust. 

Whether you want to enhance your leadership or develop and gain new key skills, our flexible sessions are tailored to benefit individuals at every level and are delivered by expert facilitators with hands-on experience.

Get the tools to elevate your leadership and make a lasting impact.

Book your place

Children’s Commissioner launches mandatory school survey

Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, has used her statutory powers to announce a compulsory survey of schools.

The survey aims to “better understand the role schools play in children’s development”. It will ask about services schools currently provide for children and their families, such as breakfast clubs, food banks and wrap around childcare, as well as how these services are funded.
The closing date is 20 December and the findings will be published in 2025, informing recommendations to the government.

Sector leaders have criticised the “oppressive and insensitive” tone of the announcement, however acknowledged the need for up-to-date information about how children are supported by schools and trusts, to inform government policy.

The announcement follows the publication of NGA’s Annual Governance Survey earlier this year, which found that 51% of respondents had reported an increase in the additional services offered by schools/trusts over the past year.

Connect, learn, lead together

We are excited to offer a series of dynamic network events which will provide you with invaluable opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and discuss the latest trends in governance.

Here’s what networks we have in store for you this term:

26 September: SEND Network

Join us to discuss and collaborate on the best practices and strategies for supporting students with SEND. This event will focus on sharing experiences and innovative approaches to ensure all pupils receive the support they need to thrive.

7 October:  Local Associations Network

Network with peers and discuss local issues and solutions within your association.

15 October: LA Partners Network

We are pleased to host our annual Local Authority partners event, exclusive to those who include one or more of our services in their governance support packages. This is an exciting opportunity to discuss and share knowledge and expertise.

26 November: Young Governors Network

Are aged 40 or younger? Join us as we discuss the role of the chair of trustees, conflict management, and so much more.

Find out more about all of our upcoming events

NGA endorses National Content Standard for RE

NGA are proud to endorse the National Content Standard for religious education, developed by the RE Council. These standards reflect a comprehensive, balanced, and inclusive approach to world views that promotes a mutual understanding and respect across the diverse beliefs and traditions in England.

By providing this clear guidance, they help ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to access high-quality religious education, fostering critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

We commend the RE Council for its commitment to promoting religious literacy and unity through education and for recognising the important role that governing boards play in ensuring schools and trusts deliver a broad and balanced curriculum for all. Governors and trustees can use the content standard to support discussions about RE. If you have any questions, please contact the RE Council at info@religiouseducationcouncil.org.uk.

Headteacher and CEO appraisal

It is the time of year that boards will be preparing to conduct their senior executive leader’s annual appraisal. NGA have several resources to support those governors and trustees performing this important function:

• Read our updated guidance on executive leader performance management – we have split this into separate guides for maintained schools and academy trusts.
• View our latest webinar on impactful executive leader performance management.
• Access training on how to effectively conduct performance management and the appraisal cycle.

Boards can also commission an external adviser from NGA’s consultancy service for their annual appraisal meeting.

Music pilot launched to support disadvantage pupils

A £1.5 million-a-year trial has been launched to help disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to learn to sing or play an instrument. The initiative, co-funded by the DfE and partners, will expand on an existing Young Sounds UK programme, offering free music lessons and exams to primary and secondary pupils across music hubs. It aims to break down barriers to opportunity by widening access to the arts and supporting young people to unlock their musical potential.

Governing boards have an important role in ensuring their organisation offers pupils a broad curriculum which includes diverse and wide-ranging art forms and cultural experiences. NGA has published guidance on cultural education, including music, to support those governing to positively influence provision in your school or trust.

The Education Endowment Foundation publishes updated pupil premium resources

The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) has published updates to their suite of pupil premium resources, designed to help schools maximise the impact of their spending and improve outcomes for socio-economically disadvantaged pupils.

Their updated guide to the pupil premium includes new information about the delivery and implementation of a school’s pupil premium strategy, to reflect the recent update to the EEF’s guidance on effective implementation. An accompanying evidence brief, also updated this week, signposts evidence-informed resources to support spending on different approaches, including high-quality teaching, recruitment and retention, and targeted interventions.

The resources are useful for governors as they support and challenge their leadership teams to improve outcomes for socio-economically disadvantaged pupils. NGA has produced a pupil premium monitoring tool to support governing boards effectively monitor and evaluate spending decisions, discuss the intended outcomes and evaluate impact.

Labour MP Helen Hayes announced as chair of the Education Select Committee

Labour MP Helen Hayes has been elected as the new chair of the Education Select Committee.

Ms Hayes, who has served as an MP since 2015, most recently worked as a Shadow Education Minister from 2021-24 and has previously served as Shadow Minister in the Cabinet Office.

The committee oversees the work of the DfE through inquiries and hearings and is one of the key channels through which NGA amplifies its members' voices to influence education policy at the government level. You can find out more about how we do this by visiting NGA’s representation page.

ESFA to close in March 2025

The government has announced it will be closing the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and moving its functions into the Department for Education (DfE).

The move will happen in two stages. The ESFA’s Schools Financial Support and Oversight (SFSO) teams will transfer to the Regions Group from 1 October, in time to support the launch of Regional Improvement Teams by January 2025 and the funding and assurance functions will be fully centralised by the end of March. These changes will help to ensure financial improvement is central to school improvement and give education settings a single point of contact for financial management and support.

Welcoming the changes NGA’s Chief Executive, Emma Balchin said that the transition “marks a positive step forward for everyone involved" and that the move to a single point of access would simplify processes for schools and trusts. 

Read NGA’s full response on the news page.

Build Your MAT Governance Skills: Expert-Led Workshops Programme for Trustees

Calling all MAT trustees - are you looking to deepen your knowledge of MAT governance to make a lasting impact on your trust?

Led by MAT governance experts, our interactive setting specific programme of workshops equip MAT trustees with essential, practical skills for effective MAT governance.

Whether you're looking for comprehensive training or individual sessions tailored to your needs, we have the right solution for you.

Book your place for autumn

Lack of diversity within teacher training and career progression

The chances of progression are “stacked against” non-White teachers according to former president of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), Evelyn Forde.

Speaking at a WomenEd event, 'Unlock the ITT Pipeline to Ensure Race Equity in Schools', Forde discussed the disparities in success rates for non-White candidates applying for initial teacher training and advancing in their careers compared to their White counterparts.

She also pointed to the lack of diversity on governing boards, as highlighted by NGA’s Annual Governance Survey, which found that 95% of respondents identified as White. Sam Henson, NGA’s Deputy Chief Executive, stressed the importance of board diversity, noting that “the lack of ethnic diversity on governing boards is a long-standing issue that can undermine the effectiveness and inclusivity of decision-making processes."

NGA has produced a range of EDI resources, including a diversity indicators form that can be used by governing boards to gather diversity data on their membership and use this to inform discussion and action.

Webinar: Impactful Executive Leader Performance Management

17 September, 12:30 – 13:10 

Join us for this essential webinar on Impactful Executive Leader Performance Management and discover the key to driving organisational success.

You will learn about proven strategies for evaluating executive leadership, setting clear performance expectations and delivering constructive feedback. Led by our in-house expert speakers, this session will also cover best practices for fostering leadership growth and development. Whether you’re refining your approach or new to performance management, this webinar offers valuable insights that will help you support and enhance executive leadership within your organisation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your leadership management skills and ensure your organisation's long-term success!

Book your place

Visit our events page for details on all of our upcoming events.

NGA joins the call for government action on attendance crisis

NGA has joined Place2Be and 43 other experts from the education, mental health, community and children’s sectors in calling on the Government to tackle the attendance crisis.

In a joint letter to the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, Place2Be and the letter’s co-signatories offer solutions to improve children's life chances and increase school attendance by prioritising inclusion, enrichment, mental health, and special educational needs support.

New research  from the University of Cambridge and Place2Be shows that one-to-one counselling may improve school attendance among persistently absent pupils, particularly at younger ages. They found that school-based one-to-one counselling has the potential to reduce the likelihood of persistent absence by 18.5%.

NGA has partnered with Place2Be to create a guide that helps boards understand their responsibilities in promoting mental health and student well-being.

Primary school disadvantage gap narrows

The gap between disadvantaged pupils’ key stage 2 SATs results and all other pupils has fallen to 3.12, from 3.21 in 2023. Although this year’s figure shows improvement, it is still wider than the 2.91 gap index pre-pandemic in 2018-19. This is according to provisional data published by the DfE.

Historically, the disadvantage gap index reduced between 2011 and 2018 before remaining at a similar level between 2018 and 2019 and increasing in 2022 to the highest level since 2012 due to the pandemic.

Other figures revealed that in reading, writing and maths (combined), 45% of disadvantaged pupils met the expected standard in 2024 compared to 67% of other pupils, both increasing by 1 percentage point since 2023, keeping the attainment gap at 22 percentage points. 

Trusts turn to sixth formers for teacher recruitment

A recent report by NFER has found that those born after 1997 are “slightly more likely to fit the motivational profile of a future teacher than Millennials”, prompting calls for more schemes to encourage them into the school workforce.

Some trusts have started training sixth-form leavers for central roles and have established a variety of teaching courses and masterclasses to encourage them into considering a career in teaching. Leaders hope that such schemes could help the government meet its commitment to hire 6,500 more teachers.

In its 2024 manifesto, NGA has called on the government to establish a strategy aimed at enhancing the appeal of a career in education, including a long-term plan for pay and incentives for all staff. Those governing can refer to NGA’s staff wellbeing guidance to support the board’s strategic oversight of staff recruitment and retention. 

Educational Impacts of Covid-19 are an ongoing challenge for schools and pupils

A new report by Tim Oates CBE, of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, warns that the educational impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic will persist for years.

Commissioned by ASCL, the report highlights that different age groups face varied challenges, such as reading difficulties in Year 7 pupils and severe language delays and social anxieties in younger children.

Oates cautions against assuming schools are "back to normal," stressing that these issues will continue for the next five to 10 years. He advocates for targeted strategies, including assessments, skill-focused interventions, and improved home-school connections.

Commenting on the findings, Pepe Di’Iasio, General Secretary of ASCL highlighted the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on schools and children and urged the new government to develop “well-funded policies” that address the concerns raised in the report.

OECD Report highlights UK education inequalities

The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development's (OECD) latest Education at a glance report highlights the inequalities in education, particularly in early childhood. The UK’s expenditure on early childhood education per child (£5,260) falls short of the average (£8,960) expenditure across other countries. Furthermore, regional disparities in educational attainment in the UK are more pronounced than other countries.
 
In response, the DfE aim to address these issues through various initiatives such as integrating childcare and early years education into the wider education system, providing free breakfast clubs, as well as developing a strategy to reduce child poverty. Sir David Bell’s review into early education, echoed these concerns emphasising the need for a comprehensive early years strategy to be developed to effectively address the attainment gap.
 
Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the need for more to be done during her speech at the OECD’s annual report launch event stating “We need to get early education and childcare right – so that all children get the very best start in life and all parents get the power to pursue their careers.”

A new chapter for NGA and the future of governance

We’re excited to announce Emma Balchin as the new Chief Executive of the National Governance Association!

In her latest blog, Emma outlines her plans and vision for the future of NGA and how we’ll be enhancing support for our members throughout the coming academic year and beyond.

With the educational landscape evolving, Emma is eager to lead NGA through these changes, ensuring we remain a strong voice for you our members and all governors, trustees and governance professionals.

This is just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead, and we’re committed to tackling the key challenges you’ve raised.

Read the blog to find out more about Emma’s vision. 

Ofsted’s Big Listen sets out significant changes

Ofsted announced significant changes this week, including a government decision to scrap single headline judgements – a move welcomed by NGA. This was followed by Ofsted’s response to the Big Listen which confirmed plans to develop report cards in place of headline judgements.

Dame Christine Gilbert’s independent learning review – commissioned by Ofsted following the tragic suicide of Ruth Perry – was published alongside the Big Listen. The review makes 14 wide-ranging recommendations and makes clear that “reform is needed to develop an approach to accountability that lessens the unnecessary pressures associated with inspection and supports school...”

Read our Ofsted inspection guidance to learn more about recent changes.

Leading Governance - places still available for autumn

Our Leading Governance programme gives you the tools to lead and support your governing board and positively impact your school or trust. Our flexible courses are perfect for those wanting to elevate their governance knowledge and expertise.

• Development for Chairs – A specialist programme to help current and aspiring chairs from any setting develop their skills in delivering effective leadership confidently
• Development for MAT trustees—Workshops focused on a practical approach to effective governance and making a positive impact. Choose the entire programme or individual sessions to suit your needs.
• Development for Clerks - Enhance your expertise with our popular Level 3 Clerking qualification, designed to develop the skills and knowledge needed for high-quality clerking of school and academy governing boards.
• Clerking essentials - A practical introductory programme for clerks - Support to get you started, whatever your setting. Designed specifically for new looking to build a strong foundation and understanding of governance.

Learn more and sign up. 

Have you completed the NGA housekeeping checklist?

Update NGA’s new address
Please update your records with immediate effect for all invoices, credits, and statements as we have moved offices. NGA’s new address is;

National Governance Association,
102 Colmore Row,
Birmingham,
B3 3AG

For our valued members, who pay NGA via cheque, please post cheques to the above address for the attention of Finance Department and then the address. Telephone numbers remain the same.

Update your membership details
As a member, we don’t want you to miss out on receiving essential benefits, such as Governing Matters magazine, the weekly e-newsletter, events, and much more.

To access your benefits, log in to your account: www.nga.org.uk Once logged in, go to ‘My NGA’ located in the top right corner of the page. You will be able to access your ‘Member Dashboard’ and benefits, edit or complete your details on ‘Your Profile’, and modify your ‘Communication Preferences’ to receive your membership magazine and the weekly newsletter.

Account managers can go to the ‘Member Dashboard’ to ‘Manage your account’ and ensure that your correct governors and trustees have access. Please encourage your members to sign into their accounts and take advantage of their benefits.

Sutton Trust research analyses the socio-economic profile of school admissions

Research released by the Sutton Trust looks at secondary school admissions and compares the socio-economic profile of school intakes with the catchment area. Specifically, it looks at the proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals (FSM) living within an area and compares this to the intake of pupils eligible for FSM in local schools.

The Sutton Trust has also published a School Admissions Dashboard – an interactive map which allows users to compare the year 7 intake over three years in relation to pupils eligible for FSM levels when compared to their local area.

Governors and trustees should ensure that their settings provide an inclusive environment that helps ensure that their school cohort reflects their local community. Steps can also be taken to help with this, such as removing any potential financial obstacles for example, a high number of branded uniform items.

NGA has produced a range of resources on the governing board's role in tackling educational disadvantage.

Gear up for this term with NGA’s events

Autumn 1 term events

As we embark on the new academic year, we are excited to offer a lineup of events designed to inspire and inform. From insightful webinars to engaging networking opportunities, our events will equip you with the latest knowledge and skills to excel in governance and leadership. Join us for an enriching experience!

September

• 17/9 - Webinar: Impactful executive leader performance management 
• 26/9 -  SEND Network

October

• 3/10 - Governance Leadership Forum: Mastering financial challenges – Strategies for MATs
• 7/10 - Local Associations Network
• 10/10 - Governance Leadership Forum: Mastering financial challenges – Strategies for Single Schools
• 15/10 - LA Partners Network
• 24/10 -  Webinar: Navigating MAT Growth – Opportunities, Risks, and Strategic Decisions for Trust Boards

See all of our upcoming events here. 

NGA’s trustee elections – virtual information session (30 September, 6pm)

NGA are electing members to join the organisation’s board from the following regions:

• North East
• South East
• East of England

The current co-chairs of NGA’s board, Alastair Cowen and Lawayne Jefferson, will be hosting a virtual session on Monday 30 September at 6pm to discuss the role and answer questions you may have. If you’re interested in attending the session please contact lara.angell@nga.org.uk.

It is important to be aware of the criteria you need to meet in order to be considered for election. Please visit our website for more information. Our virtual event can help address any queries you have – if you are unable to attend, contact Lara with any questions or queries.

Learning Link: safeguarding updates

Following key guidance changes, important updates have been made to the following Learning Link modules:

• Safeguarding: how to fulfil the governance role
• Safer Recruitment

It is important to review these modules in order to remain compliant and stay on top of the latest guidance.

If you have any feedback for the team or would like to request a specific module for the platform, please email us at learninglink@nga.org.uk.

If you are not currently a subscriber and would like more information about our e-learning platform contact us or visit Learning Link.

Welcome to Governance LIVE! Autumn 2024

Start your journey as a governor or trustee with confidence. Our Welcome to Governance LIVE sessions are designed to offer the guidance and support you need to make an impact from day one.

As an NGA Gold or MAT member, you have exclusive, complimentary access to these interactive one-hour virtual workshops, tailored to your specific governance context. These sessions will equip you with the essential tools and knowledge for success in your first six months.

What you’ll gain:

• Real-world insights: Understand the challenges and opportunities of your role.
• Actionable tips: Learn how to create an immediate and lasting impact on your board.
• Tailored support: Access resources designed for new governors and trustees.
• Vision development: Get advice on shaping the future of your school or trust.

Choose the session that fits your role, whether you’re a new governor, trustee, or committee member.

Secure your spot today!

Book your place or call 0121 237 3780 for more information.

School leaders, governors and teachers call on Minister to scrap two-child benefit limit

NGA, alongside the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), ASCL, The Centre for Education and Youth, and NEU, The Sutton Trust and Children North East, is calling for the two-child benefit limit to be scrapped. This change could lift 300,000 children out of poverty and reduce its severity for 700,000 more.

In an open letter to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, the group highlights how child poverty is leaving many pupils hungry, tired and without basic resources, impacting their well-being, attendance, and academic achievement.

NGA’s research shows the growing strain on schools and trusts, many of which are providing additional services to support struggling families, often acting as a 'fourth emergency service.'

For more information and to read the letter visit CPAG’s website.

Using AI to reduce teacher workload

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced a new project aimed at reducing teacher workload by improving the effectiveness and trustworthiness of AI tools within education.

Backed by £4 million in government funding, the project aims to reduce teacher workload by automating tasks such as lesson planning and marking. Additionally, to ensure that teachers have access to reliable and relevant resources the initiative seeks to ensure that AI tools are aligned with sector requirements.

Research on public attitudes towards the use of AI in education found that parents and pupils agreed that there are clear opportunities for teachers to use AI to support them in their jobs. Although parents were largely comfortable with AI being used by teachers, they were more hesitant about pupils interacting with it directly.

The DfE have also committed to addressing ethical and safety concerns associated with AI in education by publishing a safety framework on AI products for education, due to be published later this year.