The three main functions of the governing body are:

• To provide a strategic overview by setting and defining the school’s strategic direction, including its vision and strategic priorities, and setting and modelling the school’s culture, values and ethos,
• To monitor and evaluate the school’s progress towards achieving its aims and to act as a “critical friend” to the Headteacher by supporting and challenging them in managing the school,
• To ensure accountability of the sound, proper and effective use of the school’s financial resources.

The governors are not responsible for the day-to-day management of the school; this is the Headteacher’s role. The Headteacher and senior teachers are also responsible for the implementation of the strategic framework established by the governing body, the implementation of the school’s policies, and the internal organisation of the school.

The Headteacher provides regular strategic information and advice to the governors to enable them to fulfil their functions and reports to the governing body on the school’s progress.