External reviews of governance

The review identifies your board’s strengths as well as areas for development, providing a roadmap for improvement. NGA has completed thousands of reviews for multi academy trusts, single academy trusts, maintained school governing bodies and federations.

Our ERG process

Our consultant will work with you to agree the milestones for your ERG. We recommend you allow 8 to 12 weeks for the review.

An external review of governance consists of:

Review of evidence of governance effectiveness
Review of the governance team and their processes
Governance compliance review
Board self-review
Interviews and observations

ERG review process graphic

Case Study

External Review of Governance: Fortis Trust

An ERG enabled Fortis Trust to refine its structures, strengthen strategic alignment and build the resilient oversight needed to evolve confidently from a single academy trust into a developing MAT.

Read this case study

What does an ERG review?

The basis of all reviews is our research-guided ERG framework. This reflects the latest best practices, DfE guidance and sector evaluation frameworks.

This framework examines:

Culture and engagement
Strategic leadership
Accountability and assurance
Employer responsbilities
Governance structure
Governance processes
Compliance

Case Study

External Review of Governance: Palladian Academy Trust

An ERG and progress review helped Palladian Academy Trust to strengthen its financial oversight, sharpen strategic focus, and build the capacity needed for sustainable growth.

Read this case study

Outcomes of our ERGs

A comprehensive report and meeting or development workshop that guides the board on best practice and how to implement recommendations from the external review of governance
Access to NGA’s Knowledge Centre resources to support your improvement
Guidance on NGA training to support your improvement
The opportunity to trial NGA Membership for three months, if you are not already a member

Commissioning an ERG

Please contact us at consultancy@nga.org.uk to discuss your ERG requirements, or book a meeting with our head of consultancy to discuss your project.

Following your ERG, we also recommend a progress review after 12 months.

For more details on our ERGs, read our guide with answers to frequently asked questions.

External reviews of governance

Your questions answered

It will assist us to further develop our practice and governance. The consultant was very flexible over timings that worked well for trustees and this was appreciated.
Provided a fresh point of view and a new starting point for the school.