Governance Arrangements FAQ

How does the school’s Governing Body work with the CAN Trust?

The CAN Trust is responsible for the performance of Oaks Park High School.  This means it established the school’s governance arrangements when Oaks Park High School joined the Trust in 2019.

The governing body currently has 16 members including the Headteacher, Mr Amin.  It currently includes two staff governors elected by the school staff, and two parent governors elected by parents and carers. Ms Allott, CEO of the Trust, is also part of the Governing Body. 

The remaining posts are held by governors who have been recruited by Directors of the Trust (who have a very successful track record of school governance).  Governors are chosen if they have the necessary skills to fulfil the needs of the Governing Body.  All Trust schools have at least one governor who is also a Director of the Trust. 

How important is school governance to the future of Oaks Park High School?

The governing body holds the school to account, asks challenging questions to help the school move forward and supports those changes that will help the school and its students thrive. Part of this work is to set up a calendar of work so the school knows the areas under scrutiny and can provide reports and updates to help monitor its progress.

School governance is thus very important.  Those that take on these roles are volunteers who wish to support the work of the school.  They give freely of their time and bring a range of different skills. 

How are additional governors recruited?

The Trust and governing body continue to look at the skills needed to ensure a strong governing body and make these clear so that those interested can see what is required. We will then ask for applications and the local governing body will recommend appointments to the Trust.