Virtual Governance

We have recently answered a number of questions regarding a governing board’s rules on virtual governance.

The School Governance (Roles, Procedures and Allowances) (England) Regulations 2013 state “the governing body may approve alternative arrangements for governors to participate or vote at meetings of the governing body including but not limited to by telephone or video conference”.

The essential element is being present at the meeting as the regulations also state   “Every question to be decided at a meeting of the governing body is to be determined by a majority of the votes of the governors present and voting on the question”.

Being virtually present at a meeting will need agreement in advance by the Governing body with drafted approved protocols in place. There is no provision to vote on decisions by email. Academies need to comply with their articles of association regarding virtual governance.