Governance

Governance & Leadership

At The Place Independent School, strong governance is central to ensuring our school provides high-quality education, promotes pupil wellbeing and remains accountable to our community. Our governance arrangements are designed to support, challenge and guide the school’s leadership so that every learner thrives.

What is Governance?

Governance refers to the framework of oversight, strategic direction and accountability that ensures a school operates effectively, ethically and in the best interests of its pupils, families and staff. It involves defined roles, clear responsibilities and regular review of performance, risk and compliance.

Core Functions of Governance

Our governance framework focuses on three core areas:

Strategic Leadership

We ensure clarity of our vision, ethos and long-term direction. Trustees and governors work collaboratively with leaders to shape the strategic plan and confirm it reflects our mission and values for pupils.

Accountability

Governors hold the Senior Leadership Team to account for pupil progress, school performance, safeguarding, SEND provision and compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements relevant to independent special schools.

Financial Stewardship

Our governing body oversees the school’s financial health, ensuring resources are used wisely and sustainably. This includes risk management, budgeting and reviewing financial performance.

 

How Our Governance Works

Proprietor

  • Provide ultimate oversight of the school’s governance framework and ensure compliance with charity and educational law.
  • Appoint governors with relevant skills to support strategic objectives. 
  • Regularly review performance, risk and financial health.
Governors
Governors bring diverse experience and independent perspective to guide policy and strategy. Their responsibilities include:
  • Supporting policy development around education, wellbeing, safeguarding and SEND provision
  • Monitoring school performance against objectives 
  • Ensuring robust systems for risk, compliance and child protection 
  • Acting as a link between the school, families and community stakeholders 

Governors meet regularly and reports from these meetings contribute to transparent decision-making and continuous improvement.