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The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 43 - 10X Your Governance and Govern A.I. | #TheGovernorsPodcastWelcome to the academic year 2024-25! This episode offers a compelling mix of personal updates, professional insights, and forward-looking strategies to enrich your governance journey.By listening to this episode, you will:-Catch up with the hosts as they reflect on their activities over the summer, discussing how the month of August uniquely impacts those working in Education and Education Governance.Explore the vibrant atmosphere in the education sector, particularly at events like the Schools and Academies Show, and how these experiences can revitalise and inspire those in governance.Gain insights...2024-09-0456 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 42 - Legally Independent with Kenji Batchelor | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda to close the summer term of 23/24, we are joined by guest speaker;Kenji Batchelor, an Education Law Partner in Bristol, specialises in advising independent and special schools on legal issues, governance, and strategic projects, with over 14 years of board experience.By listening to this episode, you will:-Understand the Governance of Independent Schools: Explore the structure and responsibilities of governance in independent schools, the common misconceptions about these institutions, and the role of charity trustees in steering the strategic direction of the school....2024-07-171h 04The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 41 - Heading Upwards, Outwards and Forwards with Amy Whittall | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda we are joined by a guest speaker;Amy Whittall, Executive Director for Trust Development at The Mercian Trust, oversees People Leadership and Organisational Culture, after nearly 7 years as Headteacher of King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls.By listening to this episode, you will:-Trace the exceptional journey of an education leader evolving from the classroom to the boardroom, from navigating milestones and breaking ground along the way, to leaving a mark in both boys' selective and girls' grammar schools. Gain profound insights into the intricate d...2024-04-171h 14The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 40 - Living a Governance Lifestyle with Karl George MBE | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda we are joined by a guest speaker;Dr Karl George MBE, a thought-leader and internationally established consultant in governance, is a Partner and Head of Governance at RSM, part of the ESG team.By listening to this episode, you will:-Explore the remarkable journey of a leading corporate governance practitioner, spanning from a background in finance and accountancy to influential community activism, culminating in expertise in global governance.Delve into the fundamental principles of governance that transcend sectors, industries, and everyday life, as our esteemed guest...2024-03-201h 13The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 39 - Meeting Minutes… Writing for Hours but Reading in Seconds? | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;Meeting packs (meeting papers) that school governors and academy trustees receive to read in preparation for upcoming governing board meetingsThe importance of the agenda item ‘Minutes of the Previous Meeting’ and how to approach it - Don’t simply scroll, skip or skim past this paper!The process of taking minutes, reading and approving minutes - plus tracking the actions, including Chair’s actions, compliance actions, noting the person responsible, setting deadline datesWhat annoys clerks and governance professionalsNeurodiversity, inclusivity and accessibility - How best to write, construct and style mi...2024-02-2152 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 38 - Getting Over the Load | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), as we acknowledge 3 years of the podcast, we discuss;Transitioning from the end of the autumn term to the beginning of the spring term and how to ensure we retain our current volunteers and encourage others to joinThe volume of emails from mailing list subscriptions in the education governance space and managing your inboxes to avoid overload and overwhelm - how to implement filtering practices to determine what to action and when to respondHow organisations can manage their mailing lists and consider different email marketing and email communication strategies...2024-01-311h 02The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 37 - Sitting on Both Sides of an Exclusion Panel with Shekeila Scarlett | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we are joined by a guest speaker;Shekeila Scarlett, an Operations Manager for Transport for London and one of the youngest Chair of Governors in the country, governing at the only maintained secondary school in Hackney To discuss;Personal experience of the UK education system and the impact on life and career, incl. school bullying, the process of permanent exclusions from the perspective of the child, and appealing decisions at a Pupil Disciplinary Committee (PDC)Getting exclusion panels right, from the support for the parent a...2023-11-081h 14The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 36 - Inside an Ofsted inspection with Paula Thorne | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we are joined by a guest speaker;Paula Thorne, currently serving as a parent governor and EDI link governor at a primary school which has recently (as of 2023) received an Ofsted rating of ‘Outstanding’ in all categoriesTo discuss;Being and championing parent governorsWhen Ofsted arrives after over a decade, at the end of an academic year (summer term)How to prepare for an Ofsted inspection as an individual and as a governing board, including training and being up-to-date on all key areas such as Safe...2023-10-1849 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 35 - Conferences: Confessions of a (Non) Attendee | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;Attending conferences and events in the Education sector - When and where do they take place? Who organises/hosts/delivers them? What can governors, trustees, clerks and governance professionals, senior leaders and others gain from these?How governance conferences differ from governor trainingBoost your Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and make the most of any opportunity to improve your practicesYour presence whilst in attendance - Toggling between being a public speaker and being a delegate (present to listen and learn)The value of networking and making connections but understanding...2023-10-0449 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 34 - Leadership Insights from a MAT CEO with Nick Hudson | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we begin Season 4 and a new academic year with a guest speaker;Nick Hudson, former CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT), joins us to discuss juggling operational and strategic leadershipWhat does the role of a CEO of a 40+ schools Multi-Academy Trust look like?The recruitment process of a MAT Chief Executive - Are there key skills and qualities to keep in mind?Navigating the communication channels and relationships between all stakeholders, ensuring local governors feel connected within the whole trust - How does the size of the trust and its...2023-09-1359 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 33 - Let’s Pause and Get Some Context (Season Finale) | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;The finale of Season 3 of this podcast and its recent achievement, ranked No.4 out of 70 for the Best UK Education podcasts across 1000s - https://blog.feedspot.com/uk_education_podcasts/ An email from a listener about the experiences of being a young governor on governing boardsHow the education space is changing based on influences such as technology, digital and artificial intelligence (AI), and the benefits of having the right people in governance structures to contribute to and navigate the shifting landscapeThe Department for Education’s letter to gov...2023-07-1753 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 32 - Comments, Criticisms and Challenges | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;How to give and receive constructive criticism - Being a critical friendHow environments can influence how you show up - The significance of preparing for meetings to avoid awkward silencesNavigating different personalities and delivery styles when communicating What are your barriers to success and/or progression? Suggestions and considerations for all in school governance - Be honest. Conduct meetings in favour of the governors and trustees. Claim travel expenses as appropriate. Do the best you can, with what you have.How to tap into the resources in your n...2023-05-1755 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 31 - Sorry, not Sorry but Spring has Sprung | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;The change in intensity throughout the academic year - Are you always crawling or counting down to the next school holidays?How to better understand ‘Apologies’ for meetings - and learning not to feel guilty if you need to say ‘No’ or take a step awayBalancing commitments and priorities can feel like spinning platesThe significance of a thorough Induction process and how it supports retention strategiesCommunicating with the Clerk to Governors or Governance Professional for your Governing BoardThank you for tuning into our show. We apprecia...2023-03-2934 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 30 - New Year, New Hat, More Me | #TheGovernorsPodcastHappy 2023! For today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;The matrix of answering the question “What do you do?” Spotlight yourself!Opening up the dialogue about ‘Governance’ within your current circles - personal and professional, with family members, friends and coworkersWhat does volunteering look like? How does education/school governance show up in that category? Team building can be about learning more about your team members - Connect with your governor and trustee colleagues about your other skills, knowledge and expertise tooHighlight 21st Century skill sets more incl. digital literacy, social media and technologyThank you...2023-01-2549 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 29 - We Listen To You Too | #TheGovernorsPodcastTo celebrate 10,000+ downloads / listens in less than 2 years, for today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we share/respond to comments and questions we’ve received from you, our listeners.We want to thank you all, with special mention of messages from; Paula - Ideas for EDI / DEI / D&I in schools and academies, and a Link Governor Role DescriptionJames - Governance Can Be “Stuffy” But Fresh Voices Make A Difference To The Lives Of Children, The School Community and Future GenerationsMarleen - Being Sensitive To The Complexities Of Finance (incl. Budgets, Funding Pots, Staff P...2022-12-071h 15The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 28 - Tick Tock Goes The Boardroom Clock | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we discuss;The Schedule of Meeting Dates and Times - From Meetings During School Day To Evenings After The Standard Work HoursDo Meeting Times, Location and Durations Create Barriers For Entry, Retention and/or Progression?Implementing Reviews For A Holistic View Of The Governing Board(s)How Do Companies and Organisations Handle Their Employees’ Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) CommitmentsOur Boards Are Strategic Not Static, So Be Mindful Of What’s The Best Approach and Practice For The Governors / Trustees In Your Governance SpaceThank you...2022-11-0938 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 27 - Unblurring Fine Lines | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we kickstart Season 3 and discuss;How To Navigate The Strategic vs. Operational Landscape At A Governing Board LevelThe New Suspensions and Exclusions Guidance (September 2022) and Appreciating The Process For Those Writing PoliciesAsking Questions and Setting Plans For Yourself As An Individual Governor/Trustee FirstWearing Different Hats and Stepping Into The Shoes of Others (Inside vs. Outside The Education Space)Uncapped Terms of Offices - In This Okay? How Can We Better Prepare For Vacancies? (A Football Team Has More Than 11 Players)Thank you for tuning i...2022-10-0549 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 26 - Speak Up for The Silent Contributor | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we wrap up Season 2 and discuss;The Visibility, Voices and Value of Clerks and Governance ProfessionalsClerks Are Fundamental In The Coordination and Execution of Good Governance Practice and Procedure, incl. Exclusion Panels, Staff Complaints Committees, Appeals, as well as All The Other Meetings and Movements of Governors and Trustees across multiple Schools and AcademiesReviewing the Pay and Remuneration of the Clerking Services Required and Received Managing Expectations of the Clerking Role and Remit of Responsibilities - incl. Turnaround Time for Minutes, Developing Relationships, Advising and Navigating Unique SettingsA Plea for Acknowledgment and R...2022-07-1740 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 25 - Being Passionate and Becoming Proficient with Jo Phillips | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode) we invite our FIRST special guest, and discuss;Different Places and Resources To Become More Informed About Governance in Education, ie. The Hoot - https://thehoot.news/Education Governance Needs To Go Beyond The Sector and Recognising the CPD Opportunities - What Is The Profile Of Governance In Wider Society? How Much Is Truly Understood and How Do We Continue To Change / Evolve To Meet The Needs Of The Current Climate?The Humanity Side In Governance : A Call for Marcus Rashford; Establishing and Leveraging Relational Capital - Making Connections and Using The...2022-06-0843 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 24.3 - To Feel Seen. To Feel Heard. Representation Matters! (Diversity: PART 3) | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;What Are The 9 Protected Characteristics of the Equality Act 2010?Speaking From Lived ExperiencesThe Importance of Representation - How You Can Attract, Find and Recruit Diverse Governors Who Feel A Connection To Your Environment / School Community - What You Say vs. What You Do… Matters!Diversity Begins With The Mind - How Do You Think? How Do You Navigate the World?Steven Bartlett quote: The person who makes you smarter isn’t always the smartest one in the room. Often it’s the most curious one in the room. “Why do we do th...2022-05-1136 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 24.2 - 18+? No Prior Experience Required! (Diversity: PART 2) | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;The Importance and Necessity of Diversity of Age On Boards and Governing Bodies - Bringing The Boardroom Into The 21st Century, By Having Younger People Around The Table Who Bring The Lived ExperienceUnderstanding the Difference Between Culture-Add and Culture-FitHow To Include The Student Voice In Strategic Spaces To Better Serve Them In Today’s World From The Top DownThinking About The Journey of the Child Through The Education Sector - In Which Year Were You Born? In Which Decades Were You Educated?Challenging The Barriers To Entry Given That Being 18+ Is...2022-04-0449 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 24.1 - Seeing The Faces and Races in Your Spaces (Diversity: PART 1) | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;Kickstarting A Diversity Mini Series and The Importance of Recognising, Honouring and Representing Difference (Protected Characteristics) - Let’s Have More Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Link Governors As Mandatory Roles with a Role DescriptionUnderstanding That Your Lived Experiences Heavily Contribute To What You Can Speak OnThe Passive Use Of The Term “Minority” - What's The True Context of a School / Academy?Shocking Statistics About Diversity Levels Amongst the 300,000+ UK School GovernorsWhat Schools Must - Should - Could Do: Do A Diversity Audit Which Includes your Reality - your Actions - your C...2022-03-0250 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 23 - Fight The Fear of Finance | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;The Myth of Requiring An Accountancy Background To Be A Member of the Finance Committee and/or Justifiably Participating In Discussions About The School’s Budget and Financial ActivitiesUnderstanding The Money Management From The Inside - It’s Really Just Income and Expenditure But Narrative Is Also NecessaryThe Timescales For Drafting The Budget In Maintained Schools (Financial Year vs the Academic Year for Academies)How To Navigate Committee Meetings, Even The Ones You’re Not OnFinancial Probity Is A Key Element Of Good Governance Practice - How Are You Upholding Your D...2022-02-0936 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 22 - It’s Better To Be Safe Than… | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;The Importance of Having a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checking Cycle - How Long Is Too Long Without A New One?What Does Your Code of Conduct Say and Are Your Upholding It?Actual Barriers vs. Perceived Barriers - The Fear of The Past Haunting Present Day Opportunities To Give Back… Know For Certain!Ensuring Your Safeguarding Link Governor Is Clued Up - Understanding the Single Central Record (SCR) Process and PracticeTransparency and Taking Responsibility Is VitalWe appreciate you listening to this episode. Please rate, review and su...2022-01-2637 minThe Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 21 - Seeing Double! Kickstarting 2022 with Vision? | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;"NEW YEAR, NEW ....." What's The Difference Between a School's Mission, Ethos, Vision, Purpose, Intent/Identity and Values? (Reference: Leigh Cowan 2019's MEVPIV) and The Increasing Importance of Embedding ESG = Environmental, Social and GovernanceThinking of the Lifespan Of The Child What We Can Do, As Governors, To Support Schools With Goal-Setting: Using The MUST, the SHOULDs and the COULDs Model (Reference: Dr. Karl George MBE) How The Generational Shifts in Students and Their Parents Will Influence and Could Impact The Schools They Choose In The Next 5-10 Years - Strategically Selecting Wh...2022-01-121h 01The Governors' PodcastAgenda Item 20 - Personalities, Presence, Characteristics and Culture | #TheGovernorsPodcastFor today's Single Item Agenda (episode), we discuss;What Is Your/Others’ Personality Types? How well do you know and understand yourself, first?Addressing Diversity In Its Broadest SenseHow To Be Engaged In Different Meeting Setups (Cameras On vs Cameras Off)Understanding The Characteristics Around The Table In Governance (Dr Karl George MBE) Culture Shifts With Every Little Change We appreciate you listening to this episode. Please rate, review and subscribe to our podcast.Wishing you all a happy and healthy festive season. See you in the New Year 2022.CONNECT WITH US...2021-12-1541 min