External Reviews of Governance (ERGs) are independent evaluations designed to assess and enhance the effectiveness of governance within schools and multi-academy trusts (MATs). These reviews provide an objective analysis of a governing board’s structures, processes, and performance, offering actionable insights for improvement.
The Department for Education (DfE) recommends that MATs undertake an ERG every three years to ensure robust governance practices. The National Governance Association (NGA) emphasises that an ERG is a supportive, developmental process rather than an audit or inspection. It aims to establish a baseline for improvement by independently assessing current governance practices.
The ERG process typically involves a comprehensive review of governance documentation, interviews with key stakeholders—including trustees, governors, and senior leadership—and observation of board meetings. This thorough approach enables the identification of strengths and areas requiring development. Following the review, a detailed report is provided, outlining findings and recommending strategies to enhance governance effectiveness.
Engaging in regular ERGs fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that governance structures remain fit for purpose and responsive to evolving educational landscapes. By proactively addressing governance challenges, schools and MATs can better support educational outcomes and maintain stakeholder confidence.
In summary, External Reviews of Governance serve as a vital tool for schools and multi-academy trusts, promoting effective leadership and accountability through objective assessment and targeted development.
If you are a Chair of Governors and would like to explore how best to undertake an External Review of Governance for your school or trust (or indeed, for a basic and more general chat about what I do) please contact me by email on jack@jackminto.com – or by telephone on 07514 499238.