Why does our Board need to employ a clerk?

The School Governance (Roles, Procedures and Allowances) (England) Regulations 2013 require that ‘the governing body must appoint a clerk with a view to ensuring their efficient functioning and must have regard to advice from the clerk as to the nature of the governing body’s functions.’

What does the clerk to the GB do?

• Professional governance advisor – advising on procedure, regulations and best practice
• Administrative support to the Board and Committees including minute taking and convening meetings and provision of focussed agendas
• Ensure that the Governing Board is properly constituted
• Manage all GB information effectively in accordance with legal requirements
• Advise of statutory changes and education policy

Recruiting a Clerk

• Recruitment to be undertaken by the Board with the assistance of the Headteacher
• Should be someone independent of the school, trustworthy and good communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Consider the use of the NGA person/job spec. LINK
• Consider the use of the DfE Competency Framework to assess their suitability to the role. LINK
• Consider how you employ the clerk. See advice from the LA or your company financial provider.

Supporting and Training Your Clerk

• Ensure your clerk has access to appropriate support and resources to learn and develop in their role
• Consider investing in an experienced mentor for your clerk
• Encourage your clerk to attend local network opportunities such as LA Executive Director’s Briefings, Clerks’ Briefings, online networking to build their local knowledge
• Performance management to be put in place, delivered by the GB