Governing Body

Local Governing Body

The West Somerset College Local Governing Body is a team of dedicated individuals who work together to ensure the continued success and growth of our school. Comprising of six Governors, including the Head Teacher, we have a strong and diverse team that brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

Our Local Governing Body has a number of appointed officers, including the Chair and Vice Chair, as well as link Governors who are assigned to specific areas of College activity. These include Safeguarding, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, Health and Safety, Pupil Premium, and Careers Education Information and Guidance.

Our Local Governing Body meets a minimum of four times during the academic year, with the option to add additional meetings or create sub-groups to scrutinise specific areas in depth. We also have representation on the Trust Board, ensuring that we are connected to the wider community and working towards common goals.

Our Governors 

The Role of the Governors

As Governors, our core functions are to:

• Ensure Clarity of Vision, Ethos and Strategic Direction: We work together to create a clear and compelling vision for the College, one that is shared by all members of the community.
• Holding Leaders to Account: We hold the leadership team to account for the educational performance of the College and its pupils, as well as the performance management of staff.
• Overseeing Financial Performance: We ensure that the College's finances are managed effectively, with a focus on value for money and the achievement of our goals.

Governance Responsibilities

The main governance responsibilities of our Local Governing Body include:

• Monitoring Performance and Outcomes: We keep a close eye on the performance of all areas of education and curriculum, ensuring that our pupils are achieving their full potential.
• Monitoring Safety and Well-being: We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all our pupils, and work tirelessly to ensure their well-being.
• Evaluation and Scrutiny: We regularly evaluate and scrutinise our termly Action Plans, ensuring that we are on track to achieving our goals.
• Financial Management: We oversee the College's finances, identifying areas for improvement and making decisions that benefit the College and its community.
• Pupil Premium Spending: We monitor the spending of the Pupil Premium, ensuring that it is being used effectively to support the most disadvantaged pupils.
• Development Plan: We review and update our rolling three-year Development Plan, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective.
• Policies: We approve local College policies, ensuring that they are up-to-date and aligned with the College's values and goals.

Our role as Governors is constantly evolving, and we will review and update this position statement as necessary to reflect changes in the College and the wider community.

With thanks to:

Laura Mackie

Chair, West Somerset College Local Governing Body