Annual School and Trust Governance Survey 2025
A comprehensive overview of school and trust governance in state-funded schools in England.
Conducted by NGA for 15 consecutive years, the Annual Governance Survey offers a unique window into the views and experiences of school and trust governing boards. It enables us to reflect on where governors and trustees are making the greatest impact, where they need more support, and what the education landscape looks like through their eyes.
This year’s findings confirm once again the commitment, insight and influence that those governing bring to the table. But they also highlight ongoing tensions in the system and the urgent need to ensure that boards are resourced and empowered to continue fulfilling their core purpose: improving outcomes for children and young people.
To address the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities identified by the 2025 survey, NGA calls on government to:
- Urgently reform the SEND system
- Recognise schools' expanded community role
- Build financial sustainability that reflects today's challenges
- Invest in national governance support mechanisms
- Unlock the potential of local governance in MATs
- Strengthen school working conditions through innovation
To everyone who took part in this year’s survey – thank you. Your insights help us tell the story of governance with honesty and clarity. They underpin the evidence we use to advocate on your behalf and influence the decisions that shape the system you work so hard to support.
Sam Henson
Deputy Chief Executive
NGA
