partner Event

The conference will provide all Governors and Trustees with an important opportunity to prioritise time for their own development, gain compelling insights and information from our keynote speakers as well as the chance to network with peers and build lasting connections to further enrich their professional journey.

Workplaces where employees feel safe, appreciated, and looked after are critical to performance. At a time of complex and competing demands on school leaders, never has the duty of governing boards to consider the well-being of staff been so important. Our conference theme of ‘Effective governance through compassionate leadership’ will support governor’s to develop practical and pragmatic approaches to enhance their professional relationships, connectivity, performance, engagement, and well-being as well as reflect on the power of effective governance.

Description

During the event there will be a masterclass on compassionate leadership led by Steve Hargreaves our first keynote speaker. Steve is an award-winning leadership and culture specialist with over 20 years of experience. An executive coach and mentor, facilitator, trainer, and author of ‘The Compassionate Leader’s Playbook.’ Steve works with leaders and their teams at all organisational levels to help them understand and identify the values, qualities and characteristics required of leaders and their teams to build and sustain a more inclusive, connected, and compassionate workplace. He will give you the information you need to show how leading with
compassion is great for business, culture, and the bottom line and how when we lead with compassion everyone benefits.

Charlotte Hodgson Head of Governance Development and Regional Development Lead for Northeast, Yorkshire and Humber from the National Governance Association will be our second keynote speaker. The role of governors is pivotal in shaping the direction and success of an organisation. By fostering effective governance, chairs can significantly enhance the organisation’s performance and workload management. Charlotte Hodgson will discuss and share best practices, strategies, and insights on effective governance and workload management.

09.15 – 10.45 – Session 1: Keynote speaker Compassionate Leader Workshop
10.45 – 11.15 – Break for refreshments
11.15 – 12.30 – Session 2: Keynote speaker Compassionate Leadership Workshop
12.30 – 13.30 – Lunch and networking
13.30 – 14.45 – Session 3: Keynote speaker NGA The Power of Effective Governance
14.45 – 15.15 – Session 4: LA updates and close
15.15 – 16.15 – Refreshments and networking opportunities

Outcomes

By attending the conference, it will help governors and trustees:

• to understand the elements of effective governance and leadership as outlined in the Department for Education (DFE) new governance guides published in March 2024
• to understand how strategic leadership sets strategy and champions the school’s culture, vision and ethos
• initiate and lead strategic change
• foster a supportive working environment where workload is managed, wellbeing is prioritised, and action is taken to support staff and governors
• to challenge school leaders when necessary and provide appropriate support ensuring the effective implementation of strategic and operational plans
• build positive relationships that encourage a professional culture
• ensure that they have the expertise to fulfil their functions effectively
• by providing information, guidance and resources to help the board understand their duties
• in evaluating their boards effectiveness