Author: Jack Minto

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External Review of Governance

External Reviews of Governance (ERGs) are independent evaluations designed to assess and enhance the effectiveness of governance within schools and multi-academy trusts (MATs). These reviews provide an objective analysis of a governing board’s structures, processes, and performance, offering actionable insights for improvement.

The Department for Education (DfE) recommends that MATs undertake an ERG every three years to ensure robust governance practices. The National Governance Association (NGA) emphasises that an ERG is a supportive, developmental process rather than an audit or inspection. It aims to establish a baseline for improvement by independently assessing current governance practices.

See here for the recently updated DfE guide to External Reviews of Governance

The ERG process typically involves a comprehensive review of governance documentation, interviews with key stakeholders—including trustees, governors, and senior leadership—and observation of board meetings. This thorough approach enables the identification of strengths and areas requiring development. Following the review, a detailed report is provided, outlining findings and recommending strategies to enhance governance effectiveness.

Engaging in regular ERGs fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that governance structures remain fit for purpose and responsive to evolving educational landscapes. By proactively addressing governance challenges, schools and MATs can better support educational outcomes and maintain stakeholder confidence.

In summary, External Reviews of Governance serve as a vital tool for schools and multi-academy trusts, promoting effective leadership and accountability through objective assessment and targeted development.

If you are a Chair of Governors and would like to explore how best to undertake an External Review of Governance for your school or trust (or indeed, for a basic and more general chat about what I do) please contact me by email on jack@jackminto.com – or by telephone on 07514 499238.

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Converting an LA-Maintained School into an Academy School

Although converting a local-authority-maintained school in England to an academy can appear to be a daunting procedure, it is quite straightforward in practice. There are a number of key steps.  See below for a concise guide to the process:

1. Evaluate Eligibility

Before applying, assess your school’s readiness. To convert as a single academy, your latest Ofsted rating should be at least ‘Good’, and your pupils’ attainment and progress must be high. Additionally, you’ll need to demonstrate that your school’s finances are healthy.

2. Application Process

Explore the ‘Apply to become an academy’ portal provided by the Department for Education (DfE). This online platform is a guide to the documentation.

3. Establish or Join an Academy Trust

Post-approval, your school must either set up a new academy trust or join an existing one. This trust will oversee the school’s operations, ensuring compliance with DfE regulations and maintaining educational standards.

4. Transfer Responsibilities

As part of the conversion, you’ll transfer certain responsibilities to the academy trust. This includes staff employment, land and asset management, and contractual obligations. It’s essential to consult with stakeholders during this phase to ensure a smooth transition.

5. Prepare for Opening

Finalise preparations to operate as an academy. This encompasses updating policies, setting up financial systems, and ensuring all legal requirements are met. Effective communication with parents, staff, and the community is crucial during this stage.

Embarking on the academy conversion journey requires careful planning and collaboration. By following the above steps schools can transition effectively, aiming to enhance educational outcomes for their students. You can access the DfE guidance on converting to an academy here.

If you would like to explore how I might be able to support you in your consideration of, or your undertaking the academisation process for your school (or indeed, for a basic and more general chat about what I do) please contact me by email on jack@jackminto.com – or by telephone on 07514 499238.

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Robert the Bruce

On this day in 1306 Robert The Bruce was crowned King of Scots at Scone.

It was the year after the execution of William Wallace, and he was forced into hiding soon after his coronation.

Eventually, Bruce led the campaign to regain Scottish independence, culminating in his stunning victory at the Battle of Bannockburn in June 1314.

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Enhanced cyber resilience for schools

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has expanded its Protective Domain Name Service (PDNS) to bolster cyber resilience across UK schools. This initiative aims to safeguard educational institutions from prevalent online threats such as malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

PDNS operates by blocking access to malicious websites, preventing harmful content from infiltrating school networks. This proactive measure ensures that potential threats are intercepted before they can cause damage, thereby maintaining the integrity of educational environments.

Incorporating PDNS into school networks is a straightforward process, and the benefits are substantial. Beyond blocking malicious sites, PDNS provides insights into attempted breaches, enabling schools to understand and address potential vulnerabilities. This data-driven approach allows for continuous improvement in cybersecurity measures, fostering a culture of vigilance and preparedness.

The service is offered at no cost to all UK schools, reflecting the NCSC’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity in the education sector. By implementing PDNS, schools can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyberattacks, ensuring a safer digital experience for both students and staff.

To access the NCSC website section on PDNS click here

As cyber threats continue to evolve, initiatives like PDNS are crucial in equipping schools with the necessary tools to protect their digital infrastructure. By adopting such services, educational institutions can focus on their primary mission—providing quality education—without compromising on security.

If you would like to discuss how to your governing body should address this important area or might best achieve enhanced cyber security across your Trust or individual schools (or indeed, to have a basic and more general chat about what I do) please contact me at jack@jackminto.com or on 017514 499238 for a preliminary discussion.