Scheme of Delegation
Scheme of Delegation
Local Governance Terms of Reference
Date of Board review: Autumn 2021 Next review date: Autumn 2022 Trust Link: Alison Brennan
Revision number: 16.09.2021
‘A Commitment to Excellence’
Scheme of Delegation Local Governing Body Delegated Responsibilities
Ensuring clarity of
vision, ethos and strategic direction
• Set the vision, ethos and direction of the academy with other stakeholders
• Approve & monitor the strategic areas & targets in the
School Development Plan
• Approve, implement & review academy policies.inc
Safeguarding, Anti-bullying, Attendance
• Implement & review Trust policies inc Health & Safety, Equality, Behaviour
• Review and monitor the school website for compliance • Arrange for the preparation of termly reports to the
Trust in line with templates.
• Approve & monitor educational targets (progress & attainment) inc SEND and disadvantaged pupils
• Monitor the quality of teaching, learning and assessment
• Monitor curriculum planning, implementation and review
• Monitor the effectiveness of pupil premium and sports grant spending
• Form exclusion panels •Reviewpayprogression(exHeadteacher). Recruit
staff (ex Headteacher and Vice Headteacher)
• Recommend, review & challenge budget, inc 3-year plan, & staffing structure
• Identify current and future financial risks and accrue/plan accordingly
• Approve/reject/review expenditure in line with CAT financial handbook
• Review CAT annual audited financial statements & action recommendations
• Monitor data protection systems and practice
• Monitor critical incident planning
• Monitor the building inc maintenance & development
Holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils, and the effective and efficient performance management of staff
Overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and making sure its money is well spent
1 VISION
The purpose of Cheshire Academies Trust is to inspire hearts and minds through care, collaboration and creativity. We believe coming to work in our schools should be a joy, where staff find real job satisfaction and make a genuine difference. It is incumbent upon governors and leaders across our Trust to create the conditions for success so that children receive a great education, as a consequence of providing teachers and leaders the environment they require.
Our schools are unique. We believe in standardisation only when it provides obvious real world benefits or aligns to government and regulatory guidance. We consult widely on our policies because we care what our staff and leaders believe is right for their schools. What is right for one community will not be the same for another. We pride ourselves on our focus on equality seeking to build unity because we appreciate teamwork drives effective collaboration, which in turn promotes creativity and innovation.
We believe in people and not metrics. The health and mental wellbeing of our staff is a carefully considered aspect of our decision making at all levels and we have managed workloads throughout the pandemic so that staff can continue to come to work with the energy to inspire.
Across our Trust we ask our staff how we are doing and what impact our work has on their roles. Their feedback is overwhelming positive. They tell us they feel looked after and understand our policies and practice. As part of our Trust, staff would join as equals and have access to collaborate with all of our talented staff, who collectively have passion to provide the very best educational experiences. Leaders will be empowered to do what they believe is best for their schools, teachers and communities. Teachers will be offered the best training and knowledge so they may thrive within their classrooms. Fundamentally we believe that being part of a family of schools has afforded our staff opportunities across a wide spectrum of areas that has a real world positive impact on the learning experiences children receive.
2 INTRODUCTION
2.1 Cheshire Academies Trust (the “Trust”) is governed by a Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”) who are accountable to the Department for Education and have overall responsibility and ultimate decision making authority for all the work of the Trust, including the establishing and running of the academies operated by the Trust. The Trust will delegate responsibility to Local Governing
Bodies, the Director of Operations and Headteachers for aspects of running the academies as it sees fit, however the Trust retains ultimate decision making authority in all areas (see Annex 3 Scheme of Delegation).
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2.2 The Trustees may review the scheme of delegation at any time but shall review it at least annually.
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2.3 This scheme of delegation may only be amended by the Board of Trustees.
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2.4 The governance structure complies with the Academies’ Financial Handbook, the code of conduct
(members, trustees and governors) and the Trust’s Articles of Association
TRUST GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
Members Trust Board
Trust Board Committees
3 MEMBERS
Local Governing Bodies - Flat Structure
Local Governing Body - with Sub Committees
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3.1 The Trust is governed by Members constituted under a Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association.
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3.2 The Members are responsible for:
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3.2.1 Approving the Articles of Association
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3.2.2 Recruitment and Appointment of Members
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3.2.3 Appointment of some Trustees
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3.2.4 Removal of Trustees
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3.2.5 Securing the highest standards of accountability from Trustees for the provision of all
pupils in the Multi Academy Trust (MAT)
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3.2.6 Holding the Board of Trustees to account for performance and standards within
academies.
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3.2.7 Appointment of the Trust’s Auditors
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3.3 A Member counts towards the quorum by being present in person, by video or conference call or by proxy. Three persons entitled to vote upon the business to be transacted, each being a Member or a proxy of a Member, shall constitute a quorum.
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3.4 Members are required to maintain an update record of pecuniary/business interests.
4 TRUST BOARD
4.1 The Trust Board is responsible for:
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4.1.1 Delivering the charitable objectives of the Trust.
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4.1.2 Setting a clear strategic vision to allow the LGBs to
set and achieve their aims and objectives within such
vision.
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4.1.3 Strategically controlling the organisation and
managing the charitable assets.
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4.1.4 Ensuring compliance with the Trust’s duties under
company law and charity law and agreements made with the DfE & ESFA including the funding agreement and continued charitable status of the Trust.
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4.1.5 The determination, educational character and mission of the Trust.
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4.1.6 Ensuring the solvency of the Trust company and charity, safeguarding its assets and
delivering its charitable outcomes.
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4.1.7 Setting key strategic objectives and targets and reviewing performance against these.
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4.1.8 Ensuring that the governors have access to high quality training.
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4.1.9 Approving the Trust development plan.
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4.1.10 Approving statutory policies that are common to all Academies within the Trust.
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4.1.11 Ensuring that the year-end accounts are submitted to Members for approval.
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4.1.12 Approving the annual consolidated budget for the Trust.
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4.1.13 Authorising income and expenditure in line with the Scheme of Delegation.
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4.1.14 Appointing or dismissing the CEO, Headteachers and Central Team Staff Members.
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4.1.15 Intervening as appropriate in any Academy at risk of underperformance.
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4.1.16 Undertaking determination of the establishment, constitution, membership, proceedings
and delegated powers and functions of the Local Governing Board and committees along
with their annual review and revision.
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4.2 The Trust seeks to appoint Trustees with a range of skills and experience. The quorum for
meetings of the Board of Trustees will be three Trustees voting in person, by video or tele- conference. The term of office for all Trustees will be four years and a maximum of two terms. Trustees can, in exceptional circumstances, authorise up to a maximum of a further single third term of office Other senior staff may be invited to meetings as and when required.
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4.3 Where an issue is being discussed that directly affects a Trustee or the CEO an interest must be declared and the individual must withdraw from the meeting. Any Trustee may attend any of the Trust and Local Governing Board meetings.
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4.4 The Trustees will hold LGBs accountable for carrying out their delegated duties and will have the authority to suspend or remove a local governor by consideration to the following reasons:
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4.4.1 Repeated grounds for suspension
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4.4.2 Serious misconduct (based on the facts of the case)
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4.4.3 Repeated and serious misconduct
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4.4.4 Behaviour that undermines British values
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4.4.5 Behaviour that is detrimental to the effective operation of the Board or that interferes
with the operation of the school.
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4.5 The Trust Governance Professional will undertake the clerking of the meetings of Members and
Trustees and its committees and ensure that the minutes are included as an agenda item for consideration and approval at the next appropriate meeting. All decisions made by committees with delegated powers must be reported to the next full meeting of the Trust Board.
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4.6 The annual agenda for the Trust board revolves around vision and strategy, educational performance, financial performance, governance matters, compliance, safeguarding and risk management. A full annual agenda can be seen in APPENDIX 1.
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4.7 The Chair of the Board of Trustees will be elected at the first meeting of the academic year. Chairs of each sub-committee will be elected at the first meeting of the academic year.
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4.8 Trustees are required to undertake relevant Disclosure and Barring Service checks and maintain an update record of pecuniary/business interests.
5 INDIVIDUAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
5.1 The Role of the Chair of the Board of Trustees
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5.1.1 To lead the board in ensuring the strategic direction of Cheshire Academies Trust whilst offering effective support and challenge at all levels of the organisation
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5.1.2 To ensure the business of the Board is conducted properly, in accordance with legal requirements
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5.1.3 To ensure any decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of delegation
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5.1.4 To ensure meetings are run effectively, focusing on priorities and making the best use of time available
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5.1.5 To ensure that all attendees have an equal opportunity to participate in discussion and decision making
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5.1.6 To establish and foster an effective relationship with the
Chief Executive Officer, Director of Operations, Chairs of Local Governing Boards and
Headteachers within the Multi Academy Trust based on trust and mutual respect for each
other’s roles
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5.1.7 In the event of a need to make genuinely urgent decision the Chair of the Board of
Trustees, where appropriate in consultation with the CEO will take appropriate action on behalf of the Trust Board. The decisions taken and the reasons for urgency will be explained fully and minuted at the next meeting of the Trust Board.
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5.1.8 To exercise emergency powers as and when required.
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5.1.9 To have a casting vote in the event of a tie.
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5.2 The Role of the Chief Executive Officer
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5.2.1 Provide strategic leadership and direction of the Trust and its Academies within the vision
and strategy agreed by the Trust Board, to ensure that children consistently achieve
good or better outcomes
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5.2.2 Act in the role of accounting officer.
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5.2.3 Fulfil the Board’s vision for medium term growth by engaging with future CAT academies
and liaising with external partners
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5.2.4 Be the lead education professional for Academies in the Trust, ensuring an effective strategy for building educational and leadership capacity ahead of need
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5.2.5 Act as an ambassador for the Trust to promote CAT and its ethos and values in the communities in which it works, with the DfE and its Regional Schools Commissioner and Local Authority colleagues
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5.2.6 Ensure that the Trust’s financial viability is secure and is able to meet the Trust’s and its Academies’ needs
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5.2.7 Establish and foster an effective relationship with the Chair of the Board, Chair of the Local Governing Bodies and Headteachers within the Multi-Academy Trust based on trust and mutual respect for each other’s roles.
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5.2.8 Effectively deploy the staff and resources of the central Trust in line with strategic direction as determined by the board of trustees.
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5.2.9 Provide a written report on areas of responsibility to the Trust Board on at least a termly basis.
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5.2.10 Line manage CAT Director of Operations and Headteachers to ensure the strategic direction of the Trust is followed and that standards are maintained across the Trust.
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5.2.11 Ensure that best practice is shared within CAT but also that best practice nationally is applied across our organisation.
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5.2.12 Actively support and enhance the wellbeing and achievements of pupils and staff.
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5.2.13 Act as the Trust safeguarding officer.
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5.2.14 Provide support and training to Local Governing Bodies to ensure the highest standards
of governance are achieved.
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5.2.15 Ensure Cheshire Academies Trust is represented in national, regional and local networks
so that the Trust influences and is aware of new trends and is familiar with current best
practice in the education sector
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5.2.16 Ensure any decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of delegation
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5.3 The Role of the Director of Operations:
The Trust’s Director of Operations is responsible for delivering the Board’s vision for Cheshire Academies Trust through the day-to-day leadership of all the Trust’s business, financial and administrative functions. This includes the establishment, maintenance and development of key financial and HR processes and procedures and all non-educational Trust policies.They will:
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5.3.1 Act in the role of Chief Financial Officer
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5.3.2 Provide strategic leadership, direction and management of Finance, ensuring high
standards and the development of systems appropriate to the Trust
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5.3.3 Develop a strategic plan for robust financial management of the Trust’s activities, resources and assets in line with the Academies Financial Handbook and Companies
House requirements
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5.3.4 Line manage the Trust’s non-educational central team colleagues and academy staff with
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financial responsibility
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5.3.5 Support Headteachers in the academies’ budget process for submitting their detailed proposed budget to their Local Governing Board for approval
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5.3.6 Use appropriate data to make financial forecasts to facilitate good strategic forward planning
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5.3.7 Ensure robust budgetary control arrangements are in place to enable monitoring of income and expenditure against budgets and ensure corrective action is taken where appropriate
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5.3.8 Oversee benchmarking to review best value for money and to make suitable recommendations
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5.3.9 Ensure the timely submission of all statutory financial statements and returns
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5.3.10 Oversee the preparation of monthly management accounts, forecasts and other financial and non?financial reports, presenting reports to the Board and explaining all significant
variances to all relevant stakeholders, in accordance with agreed timetables
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5.3.11 Ensure that the financial and management accounting systems for Cheshire Academies
Trust are up?to?date and support all accounting and reporting needs
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5.3.12 Liaise with auditors and implement audit requirements and recommendations throughout
the Trust
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5.3.13 Ensure best value in the acquisition of supplies and services through effective
procurement and tendering
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5.3.14 Monitor the operation of policies concerning procurement and ordering
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5.3.15 Monitor the operation of contracts entered into for the supply of goods and services
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5.3.16 Ensure all contracting and procurement activities are fully compliant with all public sector
legislation and regulatory requirements
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5.3.17 Identify Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) opportunities for schools and create an
effective process for preparing bids
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5.3.18 Oversee all significant capital building projects and liaise with Headteachers, governors,
consultants, contractors and other interested parties as necessary
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5.3.19 Develop new central services to offer to Cheshire Academies Trust academies
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5.3.20 Investigate, source and maximise income (revenue and capital), liaising with funding
agencies and government, amongst others, and write bids
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5.3.21 Ensure that any funds received from successful bids are spent appropriately, within
budget and timescales
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5.3.22 Oversee and develop the Trust’s risk management strategy, reporting to all relevant
stakeholders as appropriate and within agreed timescales
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5.3.23 Oversee the administration of personnel matters for staff, including appointments,
contracts of employment, conditions of service, insurances, legal and other advisors, discipline and grievance matters, and making recommendations to the CEO, Headteachers, LGB’s and Board as appropriate
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5.3.24 Develop, maintain and implement Human Resource management policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all relevant employment law
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5.3.25 Liaise, consult and negotiate with union and staff representatives as and when the need arises
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5.3.26 Develop the Trusts HR strategy
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5.3.27 Develop the asset management plan, ensuring that accurate data is maintained and that
projects and priorities support educational plans and requirements
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5.3.28 Develop and implement strategies for premises management to ensure that the quality
of the estate and the learning environment for pupils is sustainable and maintained
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5.3.29 Develop and deliver building improvement projects, on?site surveys, liaising with
architects and drawing up proposals as required
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5.3.30 Ensure effective tendering and management of contracts for work done by external
contractors
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5.3.31 Ensure the effective implementation of Health and Safety requirements across the Trust
and compliance with Health and Safety law
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5.3.32 Ensure the development and maintenance of appropriate administration systems to
support the objectives and aims of Cheshire Academies Trust
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5.3.33 Act in the role of Data Protection Officer
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5.3.34 Maintain and ensure regular review of Cheshire Academies Trust’s data protection policy
and procedures and ensure that all requirements are in place.
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5.3.35 Take lead responsibility for non-educational policy development and implementation in all support areas
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5.3.36 Lead on the non-educational due diligence of schools interested in joining Cheshire Academies Trust
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5.3.37 Oversee the academy conversion process on behalf of the Trust for incoming schools
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5.3.38 Work closely with the CEO on developing a strategic development plan that ensures a proactive approach to finance, HR, premises and other support systems to maximising
the best use of resources
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5.3.39 Establish and foster an effective relationship with the CEO, Trustees, Local Governing
Board Chairs, Headteachers and Local Finance Leads within Cheshire Academies Trust
based on trust and mutual respect for each other’s roles
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5.3.40 Ensure any decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of delegation
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5.4 The Role of the Trust Governance Professional
The Trust Governance Professional is appointed by the Trust Board and will provide effective support, advice and guidance to the Board, LGB and their respective committees / sub-committees.They will:
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5.4.1 Ensure governance business is conducted
properly, in accordance with legal requirements
and the Scheme of Delegation.
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5.4.2 Ensure accurate minutes are recorded and
maintained of meetings of the Board, LGBs and
their respective committees and sub-committees.
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5.4.3 Advise Trustees / Governors on constitutional or
procedural matters, duties and powers.
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5.4.4 Work with relevant stakeholders to develop an
annual overview/calendar of events and meetings for the Board and LGB
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5.4.5 Maintain those records that are required by legislation (Register of business interests,
attendance of governors, persons with significant control etc.)
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5.4.6 Maintain Companies House and Get Information About Schools (GIAS) data on behalf of
the Board and LGBs.
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5.4.7 Maintain the statutory information published on the Trust’s website
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5.4.8 Oversee the Board’s communication strategy and manage day-to-day communications
on behalf of the Trust Board
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5.4.9 Establish and foster an effective relationship with the Members, Trustees, Chair of the
Board, Chief Executive, Director of Operations, LGBs and Headteachers within the Multi- Academy Trust based on trust and mutual respect for each other’s roles
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5.5 The Role of the Headteacher (In those schools identified as in line with gradings of “Good” or better)
The Trust Board in collaboration with the LGB and CEO will appoint the Headteacher. The Headteacher of each academy within the Trust is responsible for the operational leadership, internal organisation, management and control of the academy.
They are responsible for:
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5.5.1 Ensuring high quality education for all pupils that includes a broad and balanced
curriculum.
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5.5.2 Implementing all policies approved by the Trust Board
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5.5.3 Implementing the agreed CAT assessment cycle.
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5.5.4 Developing and sustaining effective relationships with the CEO, Director of Operations
and LGB members which are based on trust and mutual respect for each other’s roles.
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5.5.5 Providing written reports to the CEO and LGB to enable effective monitoring to take
place.
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5.5.6 Ensuring any actions / decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of
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delegation.
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5.6 The Role of the Headteacher (in those schools identified as being at risk of receiving an Ofsted grading 3 or 4, Coasting school or School Causing Concern)
The Trust Board, in consultation with the CEO and LGB, shall appoint the Headteacher of each academy that is identified as being at risk of receiving an Ofsted grading 3 or 4, being a Coasting school or a School Causing Concern. The Headteacher of each academy is responsible for the operational leadership, internal organisation, management and control of the academy.With the support of the CEO or other allocated mentor, they are responsible for:
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5.6.1 Raising the standards and quality of education for all pupils that includes a broad and
balanced curriculum.
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5.6.2 Implementing all policies approved by the Trust Board.
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5.6.3 Implementing the agreed CAT assessment cycle.
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5.6.4 Developing and sustaining effective relationships with the CEO, Director of Operations
and Chair of LGB which are based on trust and mutual respect for each other’s roles.
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5.6.5 Providing written reports to the CEO and LGB to enable effective monitoring to take
place.
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5.6.6 Ensuring any actions / decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of
delegation.
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5.7 The Role of the Chair of a Trust Committee
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5.7.1 Ensure the business of the committee is conducted properly, in accordance with legal requirements and the committee’s terms of reference.
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5.7.2 Ensure that all delegated responsibilities are undertaken in line with agreed policies and on a timely basis.
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5.7.3 Ensure meetings are run effectively, focusing on priorities and making the best use of time available.
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5.7.4 Ensure that all members have an equal opportunity to participate in discussion and decision-making.
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5.7.5 Ensure any decisions taken are done so in accordance with the scheme of delegation
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6 BOARD COMMITTEES
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6.1 The Trust Board in order to meet its requirements may opt to have board committees and the membership will be reviewed and agreed by the Board of Trustees annually. The quorum for each of the committees is three.
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6.2 The Chair of each committee will have a casting vote in the
event of a tie. The committees will meet as often as is
necessary to fulfil their responsibilities. The CEO and other
relevant senior staff should routinely attend committee
meetings as appropriate to provide information and participate in discussions. The committees may invite attendance at meetings from persons who are not members of the committee such Academy Headteachers, professional advisors and auditors to assist or advise when and where appropriate. -
6.3 Currently there are four Committees:
6.3.1 Standards Committee (Three times per year) APPENDIX 4
This committee will consider standards at each academy in detail to ascertain potential risk of underperformance. It will use Local Governing Board minutes, analysis and information to further scrutinise the standards within academies, particularly if these have been highlighted as less than good via the SOAP and risk register.
6.3.2 Resources Committee (Four times per year) APPENDIX 5
This committee will consider the Trust financial, risk, audit and staffing matters and, by exception, individual academy matters in order to provide the Trust Board with assurance on the business aspects of the Trust.
6.3.3 CEO, Headteachers’ Appraisal & Pay Review Committee – APPENDIX 3
The committee oversees the effective appraisal of the CEO, Headteachers, Director of
Operations and Central Trust staff.
6.3.4 Appeals Committee (to be appointed as required)
7 LOCAL GOVERNANCE
7.1
7.2 7.3
7.4
7.5 7.6
7.7 7.8
7.9 7.10 7.11
In order to assist with the discharge of their responsibilities, the Trustees have established a Local Governing Board (“LGB”) for each of the Academies. The LGB shall be a committee established pursuant to Articles 100 to 104 (inclusive) of the Articles of Association of the Trust (the “Articles”).
The responsibilities that are delegated to the LGBs are set out in the Scheme of Delegation. All decisions made, therefore, must be in line with the agreed Scheme of Delegation.
Where the Trust Board has significant concerns about a particular academy, including OfSTED gradings, the existing Governing Board may be replaced or supported through an Academy Monitoring Board (AMB) if appropriate. The Board of Trustees will be responsible for determining the members of the AMB and in some instances, where their skills will add to capacity may include some members of the existing Local Governing Board.
In those schools identified as having areas of significant weakness, the AMB will have some delegated responsibilities along with a clear remit to provide support to the Headteacher. Those schools already with, or demonstrating, the capacity to improve will have additional delegated responsibilities.
The level of delegation will be assessed on a school by school basis.
Where an existing Academy is deemed to be at risk of failing its pupils, the Trust will exercise the right to reconstitute the LGB and appoint the majority of its members to ensure that the identified weaknesses can be effectively addressed.
Members of the Local Governing Body will be known as governors.
In accordance with National Governance Association guidance all Local Governors will serve a 4- year term of office and a maximum of two terms. Trustees can, in exceptional circumstances, authorise up to a maximum of a further single third term of office The Local Governing Board is constituted in accordance with the requirements set out by the Trust which shall include:
? Headteacher
? Up to 2 staff governors
? At least 2 and up to 4 parent governors; and ? Up to 8 co-opted governors.
The overall size of the LGB should not exceed 12 without the approval of the Trust Board.
The quorum for a Local Governing Board meeting will be three governors not employed by the school.
Parent Governors and Staff Governors will be sought through the process of nomination and election procedures.
The Trustees have the right to appoint such persons to the LGB as they shall determine from time to time.
The Appeals Committee offers a channel of appeal for employees whose case has been considered through the Trust Academy Process and where the employee has the ability to exercise a right of appeal to the Trust
Functions:
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6.3.4.1 To make any determination to dismiss any member of staff (unless delegated to the CEO/ Headteacher)
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6.3.4.2 To make any decisions under the Trust’s personnel procedures e.g. disciplinary, grievance, capability where the CEO, Central Team, Headteacher is the subject of the action
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6.3.4.3 To make any decisions relating to any member of staff other than the Headteacher, under the Trust’s personnel procedures (unless delegated to the Headteacher)
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6.3.4.4 To make any determination or decision under the Trust’s General Complaints Procedure for Parents and others when the Local Governing Board cannot reach agreement or through the formal complaints process.
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6.3.4.5 To consider any appeal against selection for redundancy
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6.3.4.6 To consider any appeal against a decision on pay grading or pay awards
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6.3.4.7 The agenda for Committee meetings shall be determined by the Chair of the
Committee in consultation with other members of the Committee as appropriate and shall, wherever possible, be circulated in advance to persons attending the meeting and copied to the Chair of the Trust.
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7.12 The Local Governing Boards can operate sub-committees to effectively deal with the business of the school, the membership of which will be made up of governors. Alternatively, Local Governing Bodies can operate by forming a flat structure in which all governors attend all meetings. This is the Trust’s preferred structure.
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7.13 The LGB will play a crucial role in driving forward the school and offer appropriate challenge to the Headteacher. It will:
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7.13.1 promote high standards and aim to ensure that students and pupils are attending a successful school which provides them with a good education and supports their well-being.
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7.13.2 be accountable to the Trust Board for its actions and follow the expectations of governors as laid down by the Trust Board.
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7.13.3 aim to establish that it is competent, accountable, independent and diverse that it promotes best practice in governance.
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7.13.4 aim to ensure that its governors promote and uphold high standards of conduct, probity and ethics.
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8 TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR LOCAL GOVERNING BOARDS
8.1 SUMMARY ACCOUNTABILITY LEVELS
Cheshire Academies Trust has Finance and Standards committees, and Local Governing Boards (LGB) for each of the academies for which it is responsible. The Trust Board delegates the appointment of Governors to the LGB and decides what other powers to delegate to them. The LGB has the authority to delegate their functions to sub-committees, run a flat structure or in certain circumstances an individual Governor or Headteacher. In addition, where the Board has decided that a significant level of support is required in improving outcomes an Academy
Monitoring
8.2 The Trust, 8.2.1
8.2.2 8.2.3
8.2.4 8.2.5
8.2.6
Board may be established in individual academies to address this criterion.
through the Central team, will retain responsibility for:
Budget setting for all Academies within the Trust (this
will be undertaken in consultation with the Headteacher
and LGB).
Planning the Capital Expenditure programme
Setting whole academy financial targets in line with Trust
priorities
Establishing T rust wide policies applicable to each
Academy
Setting attainment and progress targets for each
Academy (where progress is under 0 for any aspect
including reading, writing and mathematics)
Undertaking CEO, Headteacher (along with LGB
members) and Central Trust staff appraisal. It will remain
the responsibility of the CEO to make the final decision regarding Headteacher appraisal.
8.3 Working on behalf of the Board of Trustees, it is the responsibility of the LGB to:
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8.3.1 Set the vision, ethos and direction of the academy in partnership with other
stakeholders.
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8.3.2 Provide effective support and challenge to Academy leaders.
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8.3.3 Approve the strategic areas and targets for inclusion in the Academy Development
Plan.
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8.3.4 In conjunction with the CEO and Headteacher, approve educational targets for the
academy as a whole and for identified groups with regard to local and national
standards.
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8.3.5 Monitor progress against the agreed educational targets in the Academy
Development Plan.
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8.3.6 Recommend the budget, including the 3-year plan, and staffing structure, for
approval to the Trust Board.
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8.3.7 Review and challenge the 3-year budget on a termly basis.
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8.3.8 Identify current and future financial risks and accrue/plan accordingly via maintenance of the academy risk register and report on such to the LGB
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8.3.9 Approve or reject any and all non-budgeted expenditure that arises throughout the Academy year that is over and above £10,000
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8.3.10 Contribute to the consultation process for Trust policies.
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8.3.11 Review quotes (2 minimum) and approve expenditure for all items over and above
£10,000 or over £2,000 where the academy does not intend to use the cheapest
quote.
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8.3.12 Review the annual audited financial statements for CAT and action any
recommendations for their academy contained therein.
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8.3.13 Contribute to Trust Board consultations.
-
8.3.14 Ensure effective policies are in place for matters not covered by central Trust
policies.
-
8.3.15 Ensure the implementation of Trust policies and review the effectiveness and impact
of them in accordance with the annual agenda plan.
-
8.3.16 Arrange for the preparation of termly reports, in line with approved templates, for
presentation to the Trust Board.
-
8.3.17 Monitor the performance of the academy in accordance with the annual agenda plan
and report to the Trust Board on a termly basis highlighting any areas of concern under the six headings of:
? Vision and strategy
? Educational performance ? Financial performance
? Safeguarding
? Compliance
? Governance
9 LOCAL GOVERNING BOARD PROTOCOLS
-
9.1 LGBs who can demonstrate appropriate levels of control may have in place a sub-committee structure if deemed appropriate. The terms of reference of each LGB sub-committee must be based on the Trust’s model and approved by the LGB each year. The membership of each sub- committee will be agreed on an annual basis at the first meeting of the Local Governing Board in the autumn term.
-
9.2 Structure and Administration:
-
9.2.1 Chair, Vice Chair and Chair of Committees will be elected on an annual basis in the
autumn term. No governor employed at the Academy will act as Chair to the LGB or a sub-committee. In the absence of the Chair and Vice Chair the committee will elect a temporary replacement from among the Governors present at the committee meeting.
-
9.2.2 The Governance Professional for all LGB meetings will be employed by the Trust Board. No meetings of the LGB should take place without the Governance Professional present, unless in exceptional circumstances in which a member of the LGB (other than the chair or staff governor) will take notes or record the meeting.
-
9.2.3 The LGB will meet as often as is necessary to fulfil its responsibilities and at least once each term. Each sub-committee/panel shall meet as often as necessary to fulfil its responsibilities (The Pay Review panel will meet at least once in each academic year).
-
9.2.4 The Governance Professional to the committee/panel will circulate the agenda for each meeting and papers normally at least a week before the committee meeting.
-
9.2.5 Attendance at each meeting, pecuniary interests, issues discussed and recommendations for decisions will be recorded.
-
9.2.6 The minutes of meetings will be forwarded by the Governance Professional of the Governing Board in sufficient time for its inclusion on the agenda and papers of the next meeting of the full Governing Board in order to ratify decisions and recommendations.
-
9.2.7 The chair of the meeting will be responsible for giving an oral summary of the meeting’s deliberations if necessary at meetings of the full Governing Board.
-
-
9.2.8 Each sub-committee is authorised to invite attendance at its meetings from persons to assist or advise on a particular matter or range of issues, including parents and members of the Academy or Trust staff who are not Governors.
-
9.2.9 Governors may vote at meetings. Where necessary, the elected chair may have a second or casting vote.
-
9.2.10 Declarations of direct or indirect interest in specific agenda items must be made. Guidance will be given on when withdrawal from the meeting and non-participation in discussion will be required.
-
9.2.11 In the event of a need to make genuinely urgent decision the Chair of Governors, where appropriate in consultation with the CEO, Headteacher and/or Chair of sub- committee (as appropriate), will take appropriate action on behalf of the LGB. The decisions taken and the reasons for urgency will be explained fully and minuted at the next meeting of the Local Governing Board.
9.3 The agenda planners for LGBs are listed in APPENDIX 2.
Delegated Authority Framework
R - Responsible (Approves) |
CAT |
Academy |
‘A Commitment to Excellence’
A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with
I – Inform about
Strategy
Trust Strategic Development
Approval of Trust Strategy
Delivery of Trust Strategy and Strategic Development Plan
Financial strategy including the management of Trust reserves and assets
Provision of financial advice for strategy development
Monitoring of progress against strategic targets Admissionof academiesto MAT
Provision of advice in relation to due diligence for the admission of academies to MAT
Creation and admission of new free schools to MAT Provision of financial and risk advice in relation to the creation and admission of new free schools to the MAT
Financial
Entering into DfE / ESFA funding arrangements Entering into leases or other legal arrangements (as per Financial Handbook)
Academy Strategic Development Implementation of Academy Development Plan Reviewing progress against Academy Development Plan and reporting to Trust on progress.
Reviewing progress against Academy Development Plan and reporting to LGB on progress. Highlighting risk to Trust Board by exception Review of overall effectiveness of SDP
Risk Management Systems
Strategic oversight of risk
? Strategic
? Financial
? Operational ? Reputational
Delivery of risk management: ? Strategic
? Financial
? Operational ? Reputational
Completion of Quality Assurance document on a termly basis highlighting potential risk.
Members |
Trust Board |
CEO |
DoO |
LGB |
Headteacher |
R
R
R
R
A
A
A
C
A
C
C
C
C
R
A
A
RA
R
R
C
A
C
I
I
A
R
A
A
A
I
A
I
RA
RA
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
I
R
C
A
C
R
C
A
C
I
I
R
C
A
I
RA
I
RA
I
I
C
C
R
A
R
A
A
I
C
C
R
A
I
C
C
R
A
R - Responsible (Approves) |
CAT |
Academy |
A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with |
Members |
Trust Board |
CEO |
DoO |
LGB |
Headteacher |
GOVERNANCE |
||||||
The Business of Governance |
||||||
Appointment of Trustees |
R |
A |
I |
I |
I |
I |
Removal of Trustees |
R |
A |
I |
I |
I |
I |
Approval of Terms of Reference for Trust committees |
R |
A |
C |
I |
I |
|
Approval of terms of reference for formation of Trust subcommittees and for LGBs |
R |
A |
C |
I |
I |
|
Approval of terms of reference for LGBs |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Recruitment procedures for co- opted governors for Academy Local Governing Boards where outcomes are good or better |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Recruitment procedures for co- opted governors for Academy Local Governing Boards where outcomes are worse than good |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Appoint Chair of Academy Local Governing Bodies |
R |
C |
C |
A |
C |
|
Remove & replace Chair of Academy Local Governing Bodies in schools providing cause for concern |
RA |
C |
C |
A |
C |
|
Removal of Local Academy LGB |
RA |
C |
C |
C |
C |
|
Suspension or removal of a Local Academy governor |
RA |
C |
C |
C |
||
Approval / amendment of scheme of delegation |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Entering into, or withdrawing from, a formal partnership |
R |
C |
C |
A |
C |
R - Responsible (Approves) |
CAT |
Academy |
A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with |
Members |
Trust Board |
CEO |
DoO |
LGB |
Headteacher |
COMPLIANCE |
||||||
Policies |
||||||
Approval of MAT policies |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Approval of local policies |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Monitoring the effectiveness and impact of policies in accordance with the annual agenda plan and reporting termly to the Trust Board. |
R |
C |
C |
A |
C |
|
Miscellaneous |
||||||
Term dates and INSET dates (may differ between academies) |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Length / organisation of academy day |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Fixed term exclusions |
C |
R |
A |
|||
Permanent exclusions |
C |
R |
A |
|||
Exclusions appeals |
C |
R |
A |
|||
Admissions policies and criteria |
R |
A |
C |
C |
C |
|
Ensuring staff and pupil records are maintained appropriately (school register etc.) and reports (such as Census) are made accurately and in a timely manner. |
I |
I |
I |
R |
A |
|
Ensuring the academy website is maintained with accurate and up-to-date information and is fully compliant with statutory requirements. |
I |
I |
R |
A |
||
Ensuring the Trust website is maintained with accurate and up-to-date information and is fully compliant with statutory requirements. |
R |
A |
C |
|||
GDPR |
||||||
Approval of data protection and associated policies |
R |
C |
A |
C |
C |
|
Ensuring that Trust data protection practices reflect the Trust data protection policy |
R |
C |
A |
C |
C |
|
Responsibility for ensuring Academy local practice reflects Trust policies |
C |
C |
R |
A |
||
Monitoring data protection systems and practice at local academy level to ensure they fulfil the requirements of the Trust Policy – reporting any concerns to the Trust Board. |
C |
C |
R |
A |
R - Responsible (Approves)
CAT
Academy
A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with
I – Inform about
Members
Trust
CEO
DoO
LGB
Headteacher
Board
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Educational Performance & Attendance
Setting Academy targets based upon previous performance, ASP, IDSR and FFT
I
C
R
A
Setting targets where outcomes are below good
Monitoring of progress against targets and ensuring that outcomes are in line with Local & National standards and monitoring specific groups (PPG, SEND, Gender).
R
I
A
I
I
C
R
A
Analysing Trust educational performance and identifying areas of underachievement.
R
A
C
C
Quality of Teaching And Learning
Monitoring the quality of teaching and learning throughout the academy where results are good or better and reporting to the LGB.
Monitoring the quality of teaching and learning throughout the academy where results are worse than good and reporting to the LGB / Trust Board.
Ensuring the delivery of a broad and balanced curriculum
I
R
I
I
A
R
A
C
C
Curriculum
Curriculum planning, implementation and review
I
C
R
A
Monitoring the impact of curriculum on standards
I
C
C
R
A
R
A
Ensuring the effectiveness of PPG
I
C
R
A
Ensuring the effectiveness of sports premium
I
C
R
A
Assessment
Provide termly reliable and validated assessments
Provide overview of Trust educational performance
I
R
C
A
R
A
C
C
R - Responsible (Approves) A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with
I – Inform about
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Financial Controls
Approval of systems of financial control Assurance over adequacy of systems of internal financial control
Appointment of external Auditors Approval of CAT financial handbook / regulations
Budget & Management Reporting
Draft annual academy budget Review academy budget and recommend to Trust Board
Draft and recommend annual Centralised Trust Budget Approve annual Centralised Trust budget
Approve Annual Universal Percentage Top Slice charge
Receipt and review of monthly management accounts
Termly review of financial position (Academy) and report to Trust Board of risk by exception.
Purchasing And Procurement Placing orders for goods and services, entering into contracts
Waiver of CAT financial regulations in respect of purchasing
Ensuring compliance with tendering processes
Banking Authority and Cash Management
Approval to borrow money
Cash flow Management, Treasury & Investment
Open a bank account and approve signatories
Insurance
Ensure all necessary insurances not covered by CAT (e.g. staff absence) are entered into by the academy
Ensure all academies are entered into the RPA
CAT |
Academy |
||||
Members |
Trust Board |
CEO |
DoO |
LGB |
Headteacher |
R
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
C
In line withCAT financial handbook
A
A
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
C
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
C
R
C
A
C
C
R
I
I
A
R
C
A
I
C
I
C
C
C
A
R
I
C
A
C
R
C
R
C
C
A
C
R
I
C
I
A
C
A
R
C
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
In line withCAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
In line with CAT financial handbook
I
R
I
C
I
A
R
I
A
I
Statutory Reporting
Responsible for the drafting of the annual accounts and Trustee’s end of year report in conjunction with the Trust’s auditors |
R |
C |
A |
I |
I |
|
Responsible for the approval of the annual accounts |
R |
I |
I |
I |
I |
I |
Responsible for the drafting and timely submission of accounting returns and termly reporting to the Board |
R |
C |
A |
I |
I |
|
Responsible for ensuring accounting returns are completed and submitted within specified deadlines |
R |
C |
A |
I |
I |
|
PAYE Returns |
R |
C |
A |
I |
I |
|
VAT Returns |
R |
C |
A |
I |
I |
R - Responsible (Approves) A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with
I – Inform about
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE - HUMAN RESOURCES
Staff Planning
Staff Structure (Trust) Approval of annual staffing budgets
Staff Structure (Academy) Approval of annual staffing budgets
Job Description sign off
Grade of posts (CEO)
Job Description sign off
Grade of posts (DoO)
Job Description sign off
Grade of posts (Central services staff)
Job Description sign off
Grade of posts (academy teaching & support staff)
Evaluation of job grades
Approval / variation of basic employment terms and conditions Recruitment
Recruitment & appointment of CEO
Recruitment & Appointment of DoO
Recruitment & Appointment of central Trust staff
Recruitment & Appointment of Headteachers
Recruitment & Appointment of Vice Headteachers
Recruitment & Appointment of SBM
Recruitment & Appointment of all other staff
Recruitment processes
Signing of employment contracts
Pay Policy
Annual approval of pay policy, including pay awards, pay point values, etc.
Determination of pay ranges
Annual Pay Progression CEO Annual Pay Progression DoO
Annual Pay Progression Headteachers
Annual Pay Progression Other Trust Staff
Annual Pay Progression Other Academy Staff
Pension Policy & Discretions
Handling of all pension matters (teachers and support staff)
CAT |
Academy |
||||
Members |
Trust Board |
CEO |
DoO |
LGB |
Headteacher |
R
RA
R
R
R
C
C
A
C
C
A
R
C
C
A
R
A
C
C
C
R
A
R
C
A
C
C
C
C
RA
R
A
R
A
C
A
R
A
C
C
R
I
R
R
R
C
A
A
C
R
C
C
C
A
R
R
C
A
A
C
C
C
A
C
C
C
A
C
RA
R
A
R
A
R
R
A
A
R
A
Approval of use of discretions |
R |
A |
R - Responsible (Approves) A – Accountable (Completes) C - Consult with
I – Inform about
CAT
Members
Trust Board
CEO
DoO
LGB
SAFEGUARDING
Safeguarding Policy
Safeguarding Practice
Academy Headteacher
C C
A
A A
A A
I A A
A C
C A
C C
A A
Approval of Trust safeguarding statement |
R |
A |
C |
I |
|
Responsibility for ensuring the Trust safeguarding statement is reflected in local policies and practice |
R |
A |
C |
I |
|
Approval of individual academy safeguarding policy |
I |
C |
I |
R |
Ensuring Academy practices reflect local academy safeguarding policy |
I |
C |
I |
R |
|
Maintaining effective systems for the identification and reporting of safeguarding concerns |
I |
C |
I |
R |
|
Ensuring all staff & governors receive appropriate training in relation to safeguarding, including safer recruitment. |
I |
C |
I |
R |
|
Ensuring safer recruitment formalities are completed in accordance with CAT policy and the single central record is maintained appropriately |
I |
C |
I |
R |
|
Maintenance of register of interests and DBS checks at Central Trust |
R |
A |
C |
I |
|
Maintenance of register of interests and DBS checks at Academy |
I |
C |
C |
R |
|
Ensuring that safeguarding is covered within the curriculum in an age- appropriate format including e-safety and road safety |
I |
C |
I |
R |
Safeguarding Governance
Reporting an overview of safeguarding, behaviour and attendance at academy level on a termly basis |
I |
C |
I |
R |
|
Reviewing safeguarding matters and holding senior leaders to account for safeguarding in accordance with the annual agenda plan and reporting termly to the Trust Board. |
R |
A |
C |
C |
|
Approving appropriate actions in academies where concerns are raised in relation to the safeguarding practices in any particular academy. |
R |
A |
C |
C |
|
Implementing appropriate actions in academies where concerns are raised in relation to the safeguarding practices in any particular academy. |
I |
C |
I |
R |
Health And Safety
Approval of health and safety policy |
R |
C |
A |
C |
|
Ensuring the adequacy of health and safety practice throughout CAT |
R |
C |
A |
C |
|
Health and Safety Accident reporting – termly reporting |
I |
I |
I |
R |
|
Health and Safety RIDDOR reporting |
I |
I |
I |
R |
Reviewing systems in place to ensure compliance with health and safety policy and minimising risk. Reporting of medium – high levels of risk to Trust Board |
R |
A |
A |
C |
C |
|
Responsibility for ensuring health and safety throughout the Trust |
R |
A |
A |
C |
C |
|
Responsibility for ensuring that staff receive appropriate health and safety training |
I |
I |
C |
R |
A |
|
Responsibility for ensuring statutory compliance checks are undertaken (asbestos, legionella, PE equipment etc.) |
I |
I |
C |
R |
A |
|
Responsibility for ensuring risk assessments are completed (using external contractors where appropriate) and recommended actions are completed. |
I |
I |
C |
R |
A |
|
Ensuring that the level of risk for school visits is acceptable and obtaining approval from the LGB for any residential visits. |
I |
I |
C |
R |
A |
|
Approval of residential risks |
I |
I |
C |
R |
A |
|
Critical Incident Management |
||||||
Implementation of Critical incident management planning at academy level |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Ensuring suitable critical incident plans are in place, monitoring compliance and reviewing the effectiveness of the policy at academy level |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Developing Critical Incident Management Policy |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Checking adequate measures are in place to manage CIMP |
I |
C |
C |
R |
A |
|
Approval of CIMP policy |
R |
C |
A |
C |
C |
APPENDIX ONE- PLANNING TIMETABLE CAT TRUST BOARD
STANDING ITEMS
?
-
? Conflicts of
interest
-
? Minutes
-
? Matters Arising
-
? Chair’s actions
-
? CEO’s actions
-
? Trustee training
reports
-
? Trustee Records
of Visits
-
? CEO Records of
Visits
-
? Clerk’s Update
-
? LGB/Trust
communication to include information for CAT Update
Apologies
Autumn 1
? Election of Chair
-
? Performance against previous
year’s KPIs
-
? Set Trust KPIs for
current academic year
Autumn 2
? Trustees to receive minutes from the meeting with the Chair of the Trust Board and Chairs of LGBs.
? Trust Growth (Part Two)
Spring 1
Spring 2
-
? Trust Growth (Part Two)
-
? To receive an update of Trust
progress against agreed plan.
Summer 1
Summer 2
? Chair of Trustees
? Trustees to receive minutes
from the meeting with the Chair of the Trust Board and Chairs of LGBs.
? Trustees to
-
? Trustees to receive minutes from the meeting with the Chair of the Trust Board and Chairs of LGBs.
-
? Trustees to review Board and LGB
performance.
-
? Trustees to receive
annual impact statements from LGBs.
and Vice-Chair
-
? Annual pecuniary
interest declarations; adopt code of conduct
-
? Membership; terms of office,
vacancies, Trustees with special responsibilities
-
? Annual review of committee terms of reference.
-
? Approve annual planner.
-
? Formally appoint Governance
Professional to the
Board.
-
? Trustees review of
Board Performance for previous academic year.
-
? Trustees to receive termly Quality
Assurance documents from LGBs. (Previous summer term)
?
to report on the outcome following the one-to-ones with Trustees of Chairs of LGBs.
? Trustees to receive termly
Quality Assurance documents from LGBs (Autumn term)
? Trust Growth (Part Two)
receive termly Quality Assurance documents from LGBs (Spring term)
? Trust Growth (Part Two)
-
? Trust Growth (Part Two)
-
? To consider future vision and strategic plan.
VISION AND STRATEGY
? Trust Growth (Part Two) |
||||||
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
? CLTA Update |
|
|
|
? CLTA Update |
|
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
|
|
? To consider Management Accounts (by exception only) |
|
? To consider Management Accounts (by exception only) |
exception only) |
SAFEGUARDING
? To commission
? Safeguarding update to include details on the SCR and recruitment procedures.
? To receive annual
? Safeguarding Update
? To review
? Safeguarding Update
RISK
annual
safeguarding audit. ? Appoint a
Safeguarding Trustee
? Consider risks at Trust level.
safeguarding audit
? Trustees to receive and
consider the Trust Risk Register.
? GDPR update (to include a report on any breach of the Regulations and actions taken)
actions from safeguarding audit.
? To approve consolidated Risk Register.
POLICIES
-
? To approve CAT Scheme to
Delegation (Trust and Academy) (annually)
-
? To ratify as required on the policy
schedule
? To ratify as required on the
policy schedule
? To ratify as required on the
policy schedule
PLANNING TIMETABLE RESOURCES COMMITTEE
Usual Business |
Matters that may be included |
? Apologies and quorum |
|
Autumn 1 (end of September) |
Autumn 2 (End of November) |
USUAL BUSINESS ? T o agree an annual programme of internal scrutiny / audit, which is objective and independent, covering systems, controls, transactions, and risks.
|
USUAL BUSINESS |
Spring (March) |
Summer (end of June) |
USUAL BUSINESS
|
USUAL BUSINESS
o Consideration of the external audit process and contents of the audit management letter to include an assessment of the effectiveness and resources of the external audit providero review of the auditor’s findings and actions taken by the SLT in response |
PLANNING TIMETABLE CURRICULUM AND STANDARDS COMMITTEE
Usual Business |
|
Autumn |
Spring |
USUAL BUSINESS Governance To nominate Chair and Vice Chair for approval by the trust board. To review and recommend annual planner and Terms of Reference for approval by trust board. Educational Performance To receive and consider annual school on a page including statutory and internal r Safeguarding To receive an update from the CEO on safeguarding to include overview of CEO safeguarding visits that are to take place throughout the year. Approval of Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. Policies To recommend / approve policies as outlined in the Policy Matrix. Risk To consider non-financial risks to the trust and to agree focus of scrutiny throughout the academic year. |
USUAL BUSINESS (as above)
|
To consider the Quality Assurance reports from local governing boards to include:
|
Summer |
USUAL BUSINESS (as above) Educational Performance To receive and consider spring term outcomes Safeguarding To receive CEO Safeguarding Record of Visit for discussion. Policies To recommend / approve policies as outlined in the Policy Matrix. To consider the Quality Assurance reports from local governing boards to include:
|
APPENDIX TWO-
Agenda structure for flat LGB
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
SEPTEMBER |
Review of completed SDP/SEF (for action) Papers required: ? Previous year review of priorities and KPIs |
To receive report on Statutory outcomes for pupils. EYFS, Phonics, KS1, Multiplication Check and KS2 SATs. To receive a report on internal outcomes, report on RWM for other year groups not involved in statutory testing. Papers required: ? School performance data summary SOAP Outcomes LGB outcomes analysis.docx |
To receive an update on any staffing changes. Headteacher to provide a verbal update. (part 2) Headteacher to provide a verbal update on school admission numbers Headteacher to provide a verbal update on Staff attendance To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation Verbal Update required:
|
To receive the safeguarding policy including any changes from KCSiE or other statutory legislation Verbal report on operation of the following policies: ? RSEPolicy ? EqualityPolicy To agree how leaders will collect view of stakeholders including: ? Pupils ? Parents ? Staff Papers required ? Safeguarding Policy (NEW ONE) 5. CAT Safeguarding |
? Annual declarations 022.docx ? Terms of Office
meeting |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
OCTOBER |
Creation of a working group to report on progress and relevance of the vision statement and to agree any changes to vision, strategy, key priorities and expected outcomes (for action) Papers required: ? NewSDP/SEF with strategic 3 year plan complete BLANK SDPSEF Master.docx |
To receive report on the annual Pupil Premium Strategy (for discussion) To receive Sports Premium report (for discussion) To receive the Catch-Up Premium report (for discussion) Monitoring of Teaching and Learning – broad and balanced curriculum (for discussion) Papers required: ? Pupil Premium strategy
|
SDP evaluation / 3 Year plan Papers required: ? ROV1 |
To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation Papers required: ? Paystatements-verbal confirmation |
To receive the full CAT annual safeguarding update. Verbal report on operation of the following policies: Papers required: ? CATAnnual Safeguarding Report ? SCR and Recruitment Review ROV Annual Safeguarding |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports Papers required: ? Minutes of previous Meeting ? HeadteacherPerformance Management confirmation ? DeclarationsofInterests ocx |
NOVEMBER |
Review priorities and targets in light |
Review statutory data Target setting EOKS |
Business Manager’s Report Report to include: |
To review website compliance (for action) |
Governor Training (for discussion) |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
of ASP, DfE performance tables and FFT data dashboard Papers required: ? FFTdata
|
Review Subject Action plans Review parental / pupil / staff survey results Papers required: ? ROV2 |
|
To receive the completed Quality Assurance document (for approval) Verbal report on operation of the following policies GDPR Policy Termly update on Children with Additional Medical Needs Attendance Policy (verbal update) Papers required:
|
Governor Visit Reports Papers required ? Minutes of previous Meeting ? ActionTracker 21- UPDATED.docx |
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JANUARY |
To receive an update on the progress against the SDP/Strategy |
To receive a report on pupil progress and attainment (for discussion) |
Approval of expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation |
Report on attendance Receive anonymous medical register and |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
(for discussion) Papers required: ? SDP/SEF impact report |
Report on teaching and learning (presentation from middle or senior leaders) Papers required: ? AutumnTerm Outcomes- STAR test data and writing outcomes ? Qualityof Education review LGB outcomes analysis.docx |
Headteachers to provide details of any expenditure requiring approval under the Scheme of Delegation. Governors to review quotes (2 minimum) and approve any item of expenditure over and above £10,000 or over £2000 where the academy does not intend to use the cheapest quote. |
Verbal report on operation of the following policies: ? FirstAidPolicy Update on before and after school club provision (for information) Confirmation of planned residential visits (for discussion) Evaluation of Parent survey results Papers required: ? Parent survey results ? Attendance– Autumn Term S175 Audit tool- Master.docx |
Papers required: ? Minutes of previous Meeting ? ActionTracker |
||
FEBRUARY |
To receive information on school session times and term dates (for information) |
Internal data |
Business Manager’sReport current financial year with a forecast out-turn |
To receive a safeguarding update to include: on curriculum to include: |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
To receive a SEND Update from the SENCO to include details of the Local Offer (for discussion) To receive an update on the monitoring of teaching and learning (for discussion) Papers required: ? SENDupdate from SENCO ? TermDates |
Papers required: ? ROV3 |
|
- Road Safety School Security update Evaluation of Pupil survey results Papers required: ? Pupil survey results ? Safeguarding Update |
Papers required: ? Minutes of previous Meeting ? ActionTracker |
||
MARCH |
To receive an update on Looked After Children (for discussion) To agree a curriculum focus area (for action) |
Review parental / pupil / staff survey results SDP Review Attendance |
Headteacher to provide a verbal update on staff training to include any staff training that has taken place or to identify and training needs. |
Arrange annual safeguarding governor report (to be reported to LGB in June.) To receive the completed Quality Assurance document (for approval) |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
Paper Required: ? LACReport ? Curriculum Policy Review |
Papers required: ? ROV4 |
To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation GDPR Lead GDPR governor to make arrangements for a meeting with the Business Manager. Papers required: ? Staff Training Records |
Termly update on Children with Additional Medical Needs Attendance Policy (verbal update) Papers required: ? QualityAssurance document ? SENDReview Quality Assurance 2021-2022.docx |
Papers required: ? Minutes of previous meeting ? ActionTracker |
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MAY |
To receive an update on the progress against the SDP/Strategy (for discussion) |
To receive information on pupil admissions numbers (for information) To receive an update on Spring Term pupil attainment and |
Internal data RAMP Curriculum (learning walk, book look) |
To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation |
Report on attendance/Pupil Numbers Arrange health and safety visit (for action) |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
Papers required: ? SDP/SEFimpact report |
progress (for discussion) Report on teaching and learning (for information Papers required: ? Spring Term Outcomes- STAR test data and writing outcomes LGB outcomes analysis.docx |
Papers required:ROV5 |
and above £10,000 or over £2000 where the academy does not intend to use the cheapest quote Pay panel to meet with the Headteacher for a review and discussion of teacher’s mid- year appraisals. HT Performance Management Panel to meet and discuss the mid-year revw. |
Papers required: ? Pupil attendance Spring Term ? Pupil Mobility/numbers |
Papers required: ? Minutes of previous meeting ? ActionTracker |
|
JUNE |
To consider school performanceagainst the school’s vision (for discussion) |
Governors to receive an update on the monitoring of teaching and learning (for discussion) |
School Business Manager’sReport to include:
|
To receive the full CAT annual safeguarding update. Verbal report on operation of the following policies: Policy |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports To agree LGB Meeting dates for the next academic year (for action) To review governor expenses To review governor attendance |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
Papers required: ? Focusreport on an aspect of teaching and learning |
Business Manager to provide the Risk Register for governors’information. GDPR GDPR governor to provide written report following meeting with Business Manager. To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation Headteachers to provide details of any expenditure requiring approval under the Scheme of Delegation. Governors to review quotes (2 minimum) and approve any item of expenditure over and above £10,000 or over £2000 where the academy does not intend to use the cheapest quote Papers required: ? GDPR Governor Report |
Termly update on Children with Additional Medical Needs Attendance Policy (verbal update) To receive the Health and Safety Audit report (for discussion) Receive annual report from safeguarding governor (for discussion) Papers required:
|
To complete a review of governance to include 4 Training Papers required: ? Minutes of previous meeting
|
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JULY |
To receive an update on the progress against the SDP/Strategy (for discussion) |
To receive an update on Summer Term pupil attainment and progress (for discussion) |
Evaluation of SDP |
To approve expenditure under the Scheme of Delegation |
To receive the completed Quality Assurance document (for approval) Evaluation of Staff survey results Staffing structure update (for information) |
Governor Training (for discussion) Governor Visit Reports Request nominations for Chair and Vice Chair (for action) Discuss appointment of Clerk Appoint HT performance management panel (for action) |
VISION AND STRATEGY |
EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE |
School IMPROVEMENT |
HR/FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE |
COMPLIANCE and SAFEGUARDING |
GOVERNANCE and RISK |
|
Verbal update required: overall success throughout the year |
Papers required: ? Summer Term Outcomes- STAR test data and writing outcomes LGB outcomes analysis.docx |
Papers required:ROV6 |
does not intend to use the cheapest quote |
Papers required ? QualityAssurance document ? Prior Attainment Group Review ? Staff survey results Quality Assurance 2021-2022.docx |
Papers required: ? Minutes of previous meeting ? ActionTracker ? Governor Impact Report |
APPENDIX THREE-
Appraisal & Pay Review Panel- Trust Staff and Headteachers
Purpose and Terms of Reference
The Resources subcommittee has the delegated authority of the Board of T rustees.
The Panel:
-
? Exercises the delegated authority of the Board of Trustees to
determine the pay and conditions of the CEO, Director of Operations, other Central Trust staff and .
-
? Exercises the Board of Trustees’ delegated authority in respect of the Trustees’ expectation, conduct,
attendance and integrity of the CEO, Director of Operations and Central Trust staff will be of a very
high standard.
-
? Refers major issues to the Board of Trustees for information.
Membership
-
? 3 Trustees and CEO (for all staff other than CEO)
-
? Chair of Governors of LGB, One Trustee, CEO (Headteachers)
-
? Support to be provided an external advisor with relevant skills
The Panel undertakes to:
-
Achieve the aims of the Trust Pay Policy in a fair and equal manner.
-
Apply the criteria set by the Trust Pay Policy in determining the pay of the CEO and Director of
Operations as well as Trust staff.
-
Observe all statutory and contractual regulations.
-
Make clear and accurate records of the reasoning behind decisions made about staff pay.
-
Ensure that, where relevant, pay progression is based upon evidence that staff meet the relevant
standards and objectives set.
-
Receive and consider recommendations from the CEO for the salaries of the Director of Operations and
Central Trust team.
-
Keep abreast of any relevant developments which may require the Pay Policy to be revised.
-
Work with the CEO and Director of Operations so that all regulations relating to staff appraisal are
complied with.
APPENDIX FOUR-
CURRICULUM AND STANDARDS COMMITTEE
Purpose and Terms of Reference
The Standards Monitoring Committee will assist the Trust Board in holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils; ensuring that high educational performance standards across the Trust are maintained and ensuring appropriate compliance with statutory and contractual requirements.
Membership
-
? Committee Chairperson (elected annually)
-
? A minimum of 4 trustees (including Chair) with no maximum of the numbers of trustees who can be a
member of the committee.
-
? Where necessary and appropriate, trustees who are not members of the Standards Monitoring
committee can be co-opted as temporary members of the committee.
-
? CEO
Quorum
A minimum of 3 Trustees will be present for the meeting to be deemed a quorate.
Duties
Educational Performance
-
? Through strategic oversight of educational performance to ensure that the highest possible standards are set and maintained across the Trust.
-
? Monitor and evaluate pupil performance data throughout the year. In doing so, the committee should take into account the performance of all groups represented across the trust including disadvantaged groups, pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) looked-after children and pupils in different ethnic, social and ability groups.
-
? To ensure that effective processes are in place for effective collaboration and sharing of good practice.
-
? To report to the trust board on educational performance across the trust. ?
Safeguarding
? Whilst the responsibility for the strategic oversight of all aspects of safeguarding across the organisation remains the responsibility of the trust board, the Standards Monitoring committee will ensure policies and procedures are up-to-date and that effective systems are in place to monitor safeguarding across the trust. This will include review of the annual Safeguarding and Child Protection policy and recommendation for approval by the trust board.
?
Risk
? To consider non-financial risks to the trust and to consider in depth any areas of concern and, in association with the CEO, develop an appropriate response for recommendation to the Trust Board.
Policies
? To receive and review policies assigned to the committee as outline in the CAT Policy Approval Matrix. Where statutory policies do not require full board approval, the committee has the delegated authority to approve these policies. Policies that are required by legislation to be formally approved by the trust board will be scrutinised by the committee who will then make recommendations to the trust board.
Review of Effectiveness of the Committee
? The committee will review, on a regular basis, its own performance, constitution and terms of reference to ensure it is operating at maximum effectiveness.
APPENDIX FIVE –
RESOURCES COMMITTEE Purpose and Terms of Reference The Resources committee will:
Assist the Trust Board in ensuring that assets are dealt with in accordance with the Academy Trust Handbook and the Master Funding Agreement and are used to ensure the best outcomes of pupils.
The Resources Committee is a Committee of the Trust Board and is authorised to investigate any activity within its terms of reference or specifically delegated to it by the Board. The Resources Committee will be deemed to have delegated authority to act on behalf of the Trust Board in relation to any of the duties
outlined within these terms of reference unless expressly stated otherwise.
Membership
-
? Committee Chairperson (elected annually)
-
? 4 trustees (including Chair)
-
? CEO
-
? At least one member of the committee should have recent or relevant
accountancy or audit assurance experience.
-
? The Chair of Trustees should not be Chair of the Resources Committee
Quorum
A minimum of 3 Trustees will be present for the meeting to be deemed a quorate.In the event of difficulty in achieving a quorum, trustees who are not members of the committee may be co- opted as members for individual meetings provided the majority of the quorum are full members of the committee.
Duties
The Resources Committee has the following duties:
Financial Responsibilities:
It is the responsibility of the Resources Committee to:
-
? Develop a financial strategy for the Trust and consider policies, procedures or plans required to realise such strategy.
-
? Consider the Trust's indicative funding, once notified by the ESFA, and to assess its implications for the Academy Trust, in consultation with the CEO and the Director of Operations, in advance of the financial year, drawing any matters of significance or concern to the attention of the Trustees.
-
? Approve the budgets of individual academies once recommended by the individual LGBs.
-
? Approve the budgets for the central Trust and CLTA.
-
? Consider and recommend acceptance/non-acceptance of the consolidated Trust
budget to the Trustees.
-
? Monitor any variances from the budget and ensure the ESFA is notified as required.
-
? Monitor and review income and expenditure on a regular basis and ensure
compliance with the overall financial plan for the Academy Trust, drawing any
matters of concern to the attention of the Trust Board.
-
? Monitor and review procedures for ensuring the effective implementation and
operation of financial procedures, on a regular basis, including the implementation of
?
? ? ?
?
bank account arrangements and, where appropriate to make recommendations for improvement.
Oversee preparation of the annual financial statements for review and approval by the Trust Board.
Examine and review new initiatives for financial development.
Approve and keep under review the Academy Trust's reserves policy.
Promptly notify the Trust Board of all financial matters of which the Committee has knowledge and which may materially affect the current or future position of the Academy Trust.
Advise generally on the provision of resources and services to the Academy Trust.
Policy Approval
The Resources Committee has the express authority of the Board of Trustees to approve Trust policies as |
outlined in the Cheshire Academies Trust Policy schedule with the exception of the following statutory policies which require full Board approval: Protection of Biometric Information Teachers’ Pay Policy |
The Resources Committee is authorised to scrutinise the above policies and make recommendations to the Board. |
Staffing Matters
-
? Consider, determine and keep under review any strategies and policies for human resources and organisational development.
-
? To act as the pay panel for central Trust staff including CEO, CFOO and each academy Principal.
-
? Consider, determine and keep under review effective arrangements for consultation with staff as a
whole.
-
? Ensure effective measures are in place to promote equality and diversity in employment.
-
? Consider the details of restructuring programs following any necessary approvals in principle by the
Trust Board.
-
? Develop strategy and policy in all matters relating to the recruitment, reward, retention, motivation
and development of the Academy Trust's staff.
-
? To consider the implications on the Trust of recommendations in the STPCD and advise the Trust
Board accordingly.
-
? To consider the implications to the Trust of national pay agreements for support staff, including the
effect of Local Living Wage and advise the Trust Board accordingly.
-
? To review annually the staffing of the Central Trust.
-
? To keep the Trust HR policies and their practice under review and to make revisions where
appropriate.
Audit and Risk
The Board of Trustees at Cheshire Academies Trust have determined that the remit of the Resources Committee includes the function of an audit and risk committee.
In accordance with the provisions of the Academies Trust Handbook, staff employed by the Trust will not count toward membership for the purposes of discussions around audit and risk. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance and Operations Officer will, however, normally be invited to stay for such discussions to provide trustees with appropriate information.
To avoid any doubt, the governance professional will ensure that the agenda reflects items which are general committee business and which items relate to audit and risk.
The committee has the authority to:
? request any information it requires from any employee, external audit, internal audit, |
or other assurance provider. normally in consultation with the Accounting Officer and/or the Trust Board. |
The Resources Committee’s responsibilities in relation to audit and risk are:
? to maintain an oversight of the Trust's financial, governance, risk management and internal control systems
-
? to report findings termly and annually to the Trust Board and the Accounting Office as a critical element of the trust's annual reporting requirements.
-
? report back to the Trust Board regularly every term
-
? provide an annual summary report provided by the internal scrutineer / auditor an
areas reviewed by internal scrutiny / audit covering key findings, recommendations
and conclusions
-
? advise the board on the effectiveness and resources of the external/internal auditors
or scrutineers to provide a basis for their reappointment, dismissal, retendering, or
remuneration.
-
? ensure there is co-ordination between internal audit/scrutiny and external audit and
any other review bodies that are relevant
? consider the reports of the auditors/scrutineers and, when appropriate, advise the
Trust Board of material control issues.
? take delegated responsibility on behalf of the board of trustees for examining and reviewing all systems and methods of control both financial and otherwise including risk analysis and risk management; and for ensuring the Trust is complying with the
overall requirements for internal scrutiny, as specified in the Academy Trust
Handbook.
-
? conduct a regular review of the risk register (RAMP)
-
? agree an annual programme of internal scrutiny / audit, which is objective and
independent, covering systems, controls, transactions, and risks.
? advise the trustees on the adequacy and effectiveness of the trust's systems of internal control, governance, and risk management processes,
? consider the appropriateness of executive action following internal audit/internal
scrutiny reviews and to advise the board on any additional or alternative steps to be taken
? review the external auditor's management report each year
-
? review the annual report and accounts
-
? review the auditor's findings and actions taken by the trust's SLT in response to
those findings
Additional Responsibilities
-
? Provide minutes of all meetings for review at board meeting
-
? Encourage a culture within the trust whereby each individual feels that he or she has
a part to play in guarding the probity of the Trust, and is able to take any concerns or worries to an appropriate member of the management team or in exceptional
circumstances directly to the Board of Trustees
? Review, on a regular basis, its own performance, constitution and terms of reference to ensure it is operating at maximum effectiveness
APPENDIX SIX-
REMOVAL OF GOVERNORS
SUSPENSION OF A GOVERNOR
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/1624/regulation/17/made
The School Governance (Roles, Procedures and Allowances) (England) Regulations 2013 set out the grounds for suspending a governor for a fixed period of up to six months on one or more of the following grounds:
? if governor is an employee of the school and is subject to disciplinary proceedings
? governor is subject to court proceedings where the outcome may be that the governor is disqualified from continuing to hold office as a governor.
? that the governor has acted in a way that is inconsistent with the ethos or with the religious character of the school and has brought or is likely to bring the school or the governing body or the office of governor into disrepute; or
? that the governor is in breach of the duty of confidentiality to the school or to any member of staff or pupil at the school.
Procedures to be followed for suspension:
? A resolution to suspend a governor has to be included on the agenda.
? The governor proposing the resolution must state the reasons for the proposal and the governor who is
subject to the resolution must be given the opportunity to make a statement (before withdrawing from the meeting).
REMOVAL OF A GOVERNOR
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/constitution-of-governing-bodies-of-maintained-schools
The statutory guidance – Constitution of Governing Bodies of Maintained Schools states that grounds for removing a governor might include:
-
? Repeated grounds for suspension
-
? Serious misconduct (based on the facts of the case)
-
? Repeated and serious misconduct
-
? Behaviour that undermines British values
-
? Behaviour that is detrimental to the effective operation of the Board or that interferes with the operation
of the school.
Also Consider:
? Breach of Code of Conduct Scheme of Delegation
Grounds for termination of the appointment of a member of the LGB might (but is not limited to) the following situations:
-
? Repeated and serious misconduct (based on the facts) including breach of Code of Conduct/Nolan Principles
-
? Behaviour that undermines British values
-
? Behaviour that is detrimental to the effective operation of the Board or that interferes with the operation
of the school and is likely to bring the school, governing body or office of governor into disrepute.
The Trustees may terminate the appointment of any member of the LGB whose presence or conduct is deemed by the Trustees not to be in the best interests of the Trust or the Academy. The Trust would expect termination of appointment to be undertaken in consultation with the LGB and could be on the recommendation of the LGB.