Introduction

The following is not a definitive statement of responsibilities but is concerned with the common understanding of broad principles by which the Local Management Board and individual governors will operate.

We are very fortunate to have a very active, challenging and robust Governing Body. As we have recently converted to Academy Status they have become members of the Local Management Board.

The school Local Management Board is made up of Foundation Governors who are appointed by His Lordship the Bishop of Middleborough, two parent Governors, and two staff representatives.

The Governors meet officially each term to discuss the business of the school but they take a special interest in all school activities. Each area of the curriculum is managed by a member of the Governing Body. Governors visit the school regularly and are very aware of all aspects of the life of the school including pupil progress and the quality of the teaching. Minutes of all Local Management Board meetings are available for inspection, once they have been approved by Governors.

Through the termly meetings, the Governors discharge their legal obligations and, through the working of Sub-Committees, set the School Policies for the Head Teacher and staff to implement.

The philosophy of the Christ the King Multi-Academy Trust is based on school-to-school support and collective responsibility. It sees its role predominantly as supporting school improvement. The Local Management Board had already seen the impact of school-to-school support through the work of the OLOLCMAT.  LMB realised there was a need for a strong organisation that had a clear moral purpose and a genuine appetite for collaboration.

Our Lady of Light Multi Academy Trust is a one primary and one secondary from September 2015, includes two ‘outstanding’ schools, two ‘good to outstanding’ schools. They see the advantage of being part of a collaboration that is focused on improving education for all.

First and foremost Christ the King Local Management Board (Governors) have the ability to challenge, motivate, inspire, empower and support others. We believe a combination of strong moral purpose, integrity, honesty and openness is essential. The continuous focus on teaching and learning and high standards particularly for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Local Management Board in line with the ability to interpret data and monitor performance expertly we consider to be the essential elements of Christ the King Local Management Board.

Governors and directors need to be able to work collectively for the good of OLOLCMAT, and to have both the time and the stamina to successfully perform their roles.

The trust is still working through the roles and terms of reference for the Local Management Baord, but the model adopted is one where the LGB and the role of the chair of governors is focused specifically on the quality of teaching and learning and ensuring high standards. Therefore, responsibility for big-ticket items such as health and safety, HR, the budget and staffing sits with the directors at trust level.

General

1.    We have the responsibility for determining, monitoring and keeping under review the
broad policies, plans and procedures within which the school operates.
2.    We recognize that the Headteacher is responsible for the implementation of policy and
internal organisation and management of the school, and the implementation and
operation of the curriculum.
3.    We accept that all governors have equal status, ad although appointed by different
groups our overriding concern will the welfare of the school as a whole.
4.    We have a duty to act fairly and without prejudice, and in so far as we have responsibility
for staff, we will fulfil all legal expectations as, or on behalf of the Directors of the MAT.
5.    We will consider carefully, how our decisions may affect other schools.

Commitment

1.    We acknowledge that accepting office as a governor involves the commitment of
significant amounts of time and energy.
2.    We will each involve ourselves actively in the work of the Governing Body, attend
meetings regularly, and accept our fair share of responsibilities, including membership of
committees or working groups.
3.    We will get to know the school well and respond to opportunities to involve ourselves in
school activities.
4.    We will ensure that our individual and collective needs for training and development are
sought.

Relationships

1.    We will strive to work as a team. Drawing on the model of the person, life and teachings
of Jesus Christ, the Local Management Board will strive to develop effective working
relationships with:

•    The Headteacher
•    Staff Children
•    Parents
•    The Diocese
•    Christ the King Parish and local communities
•    The Local Authority
•    Multi-agency representatives
•    Other local schools
•    Local educational organisations/businesses etc.

2.    Ensure that relationships between governors and with other stakeholders are anchored in
the principles which flow from the Gospel. The Local Management Board will draw on the
guidance offered in ‘Christ at the Centre’ from Middlesbrough Diocese.

3.    We will observe confidentiality regarding proceedings of the Local Management Board in
meetings and from our visits to school as governors.

4.    We will observe complete confidentiality when required to do so especially regarding
matters concerning individual staff or students.