governance good practice guide

governance and management distinctions

governance, management and the mission statement

Governing boards operate in different ways, using different models of governance.

Go to the section on models and modes of governance

The balance of activities and responsibilities between governance and management may vary from time to time according to the particular situation of the college. For example, a college may adopt a different model to meet its specific needs after a disappointing external inspection report.

In brief:

• governing boards set corporate aims and objectives, and monitor their achievement
• it is the role of the senior management team to work out what has to be done to achieve these aims and objectives.

Mission statements, visions and identifying priorities are about ends and targets, and are the responsibility of the governing board.

The design and execution of the means or the strategies to achieve these ends is the responsibility of management.

An effective mission statement enables the governing board to:

• establish a clear sense of purpose and direction for the college
• specify priorities and ends
• provide the parameters for management decision-making
• enable evaluation (by providing the benchmark or quality standard against which the college and governing board can monitor, measure and continuously improve the college's performance and achievements).

Whatever model of governance is used, it is important for the governing board to monitor and review on a routine basis the college's mission statement to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

Clarity in the distinction between governance and management

It is helpful to reflect on the understanding of governing board members and the principal, and agree a statement that is regularly revisited.

Such a statement might include the following summary and agreed delineation of responsibilities between governance and management.

• Policy, oversight, financial probity and monitoring are the business of the governing board.
• College management and administration are the business of the principal and management team.
• The board and principal are a team and need to work closely together. A good working relationship between them is essential to achieve corporate goals. This is led by establishing effective working arrangements between the chair, principal and clerk.
• The line between the board and principal should be clearly articulated and understood by board members and senior managers.
• Clarity about roles and responsibilities is paramount, and should be reviewed regularly.
• The principal, senior management and clerk inform and guide the governing board in making appropriate and effective decisions.

The board has the final and highest level of authority in the policy-making process, but may not exceed its legal parameters.

FE quality improvement

Management and governance in further education should work together to achieve the highest quality outcomes for colleges and the FE system as a whole.