Purpose

The proposed variation to the Instrument of Government has been reviewed (increase of 1 co-opted governor) and is considered compliant with the requirements of the School Governance (Constitution) (England) Regulations 2012. The variation has been assessed against the statutory provisions relating to the constitution and governance of maintained schools and is considered to support effective, sustainable and lawful governance arrangements for the school.

In reaching this decision, regard has been given to the Maintained Schools: Governance Guide and the statutory guidance Constitution of Governing Bodies of Maintained Schools, which set out the principles and requirements for effective governance and the composition of governing bodies. The proposed amendment reflects the governing body's agreed request and ensures that the Instrument of Government continues to provide an appropriate governance framework for the school.

The governing body's proposal has been assessed solely against the statutory requirements for maintained school governance, and no matters have been identified that would prevent the Local Authority from approving the variation. The Local Authority is therefore satisfied that the revised Instrument of Government is lawful, appropriate and consistent with the relevant legislative and governance requirements.

Decision

That the Variation of Instrument of Government for Lincolnshire Maintained School – Great Steeping Primary School be approved

Alternative options considered

Alternative options were not pursued as the proposed variation represents the most appropriate and compliant governance arrangement available within the statutory framework.

The variation has been assessed against the requirements of the School Governance (Constitution) (England) Regulations 2012 and accompanying statutory guidance relating to the constitution and governance of maintained schools.

No alternative arrangement was identified that would better meet the school's circumstances whilst remaining consistent with the relevant legislative and governance requirements.