BASG Executive Minutes 09.11.2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 9 November 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull,

Joanne Marchant, Gwyneth Langley, Peter Learner, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

 

Jo Pearce joined the meeting at 18.25

 

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

None

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

 

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

Gwyneth Langley – BEP

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 12.10.2020

 

 

Matters arising within the minutes including follow up actions are covered within the agenda.

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Membership

 

 

New members to join BASG Executive Committee – PR intends to follow up with governors who expressed an interest at the last AGM.

 

 

PR

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

BEP update

 

BASG wish to ensure that concerns and questions raised by governors are being fed back into to the communication network within Bucks.

 

GL highlighted the following matters which have been raised most recently by governors:

·         Challenge of Governor visits to schools during the present pandemic

·         Ongoing Training

·         Child Protection Policy not being updated by BC

·         Completion of SFVS by 31.12.2020

 

The group was reminded that there is a BEP Chair’s briefing (for all Chairs with or without training membership) on 13.11.2020 from 9.30-11.30

BEP will mention BASG events at the briefing and for governors interested in joining Executive Committee to contact Chair (PR)

 

PR and MB will follow up on the review of policies within BC

 

PL requested that a short paper be prepared to explain what the issues are and any consequences with a relevant timeline.

This will then be reviewed in the light of future Consultative Board meetings.

 

JP joined the meeting at 18.25

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR/MG-to follow up

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Schools

 

Discussion took place regarding the difficulties for schools to manage when half a class is isolating and the staffing issue of who teaches the other half of the class while the teacher is isolating.

 

COVID19 tests kits are being replenished in schools.

Teachers in maintained schools are being prioritized for testing.

 

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are carrying out spot checks in Buckinghamshire Schools with one week’s notice. The focus is on the Risk Assessments used for opening schools. They are reporting on health and safety provisions during COVID for adults / workers at the School.

They look at the risk assessments for re-opening prior to the visit and then tour the school to see the safety measures ‘in action’.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

 

8.

 

Networking groups

 

Aylesbury networking group

In an attempt to avoid a clash of dates with BASG, the Aylesbury networking group have delayed arranging a date for the next meeting.

 

Jordans networking group – met virtually on Saturday 7th November, 2020.

Discussion took place around Disadvantaged funding and how this is allocated across the authority. The group felt it was important to have transparency regarding this funding and the opportunity for open and honest discussion. The only purpose being to facilitate the best possible use of funds for the Disadvantaged. This is an on-going discussion within the authority.

Discussion also took place around the use of DSG money outside of Buckinghamshire.

This is also an on-going discussion.

 

No news on Chesham or Wendover Networking groups.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

BASG events

 

BASG AGM – 14.01.2021 with Keynote speaker Emma Knights OBE (Chief Executive NGA)

 

In addition:

 

BASG Spotlight on Disadvantage with Sam Henson (Director of Policy and Information NGA) on either 30.11.2020 or 01.12.2020 tbc by PR.

 

 

PR/MB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

10.

 

Communication with BC

 

PR continues to keep in regular contact with BC which continues to facilitate a positive and growing trust across the authority for the role and purpose of governors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11

 

Consultative Board

 

As Chair of the Consultative Board, PL reported that he had a positive 1:1 introductory meeting with Simon James.

 

 

The next Consultative Board meeting will be held on 9th December, 2020.

 

 
 

12

 

AOB

 

School meals

AS expressed the need for clarification on what arrangements there are within BC for the funding of the increase in FSM.

 

 
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

It was recommended that all meetings continue in the Autumn Term 2020 in a virtual format.

 

The date for the next meeting of the BASG Executive group TBC

 

Meeting closed at 19.34

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 12/10/2020

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 12 October 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull,

Joanne Marchant, Gwyneth Langley, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

 

Jo Pearce, Peter Learner – received and accepted

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Jo Pearce

Peter Learner

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

Accounts – PR

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

Gwyneth Langley – BEP

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 14.09.2020

 

 

Matters arising

 

AS informed the group, that she and her HT had continued to follow up with PGL regarding monies paid for a service which did not take place because of the COVID situation.

Their further communication with PGL, highlighted that non reimbursement of this money would have a negative impact on the school and the disadvantaged.

AS advised schools to follow up directly with PGL if they are in similar positions and they seek a positive outcome for their school.

Schools are welcome to make contact with her directly at

anne.sheddick@gmail.com

if they wish to discuss it further.

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AS

 

5.

 

 

 

Membership

 

 

New members to join BASG Executive Committee – PR intends to send out a communication asking interested governors to make contact with him to discuss further.

 

 

PR

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

BEP update

 

GL on behalf of BEP, thanked PR for his attendance and involvement at the most recent BEP Chairs’ Conference which was held for those who have training membership. Very positive feedback had been received regarding the content of the BEP Conference.

 

GL fed back concerns/queries being raised by governors across Buckinghamshire. This ensures that, as appropriate, this can be fed back through the Consultative Board and its members to ensure a greater understanding of concerns across BUCKS.

 

Issues raised included:

·         Meeting arrangements during the pandemic

·         HTPM process

·         Dealing with Complaints during lockdown

·         Child Protection Policy – whether this is going to be reviewed by BC so a model policy is available for schools to use and adapt for their individual schools. It was felt this would be very supportive for schools.

·         Mental health issues with parents/pupils – mechanisms in place in schools

 

The group was reminded that there is a BEP Chair’s briefing (for all Chairs with or without training membership) on 13.11.2020 from 9.30-11.30

PR will add this information to BASG website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR-to follow up

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

7.

 

Schools

 

Discussion took place regarding Leadership and wellbeing in schools in the present situation.

The legal requirement for schools to have a Home Learning Plan in place adds to the pressure on schools.

PR will follow up regarding where we are with input from Bucks on this important area.

 

PR informed the group that Headteachers and Chairs of Governors are invited to attend a half day conference on

Closing the Gap in Buckinghamshire’ – Focus – addressing the needs of vulnerable groups

Friday Nov 6th 2020 1:30 – 4:00 pm

(link on SchoolsWeb)

It is an opportunity to hear colleagues and a keynote speaker address the issue of this important area in Buckinghamshire.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

 

8.

 

Networking groups

 

Aylesbury networking group met in a virtual meeting on 30.09.2020.

The meeting was well attended with some new attendees joining the group.

 

Issues discussed included:

·         GDPR

·         Governor meetings

·         Return to school

·         Grouping of pupils

·         On-line learning

·         School costs/income in the present COVID situation

 

Dates for the next Aylesbury meeting are being explored so as to avoid clashes with other BC/BASG events, if possible.

 

Jordans networking group – next virtual meeting is planned for Saturday 7th November, 2020.

 

No news on Chesham or Wendover Networking groups.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

BASG events

 

BASG AGM – 14.01.2021 with Keynote speaker Emma Knights OBE (Chief Executive NGA)

 

In addition:

 

BASG Spotlight on Disadvantage with Sam Henson (Director of Policy and Information NGA) on either 30.11.2020 or 01.12.2020 tbc by PR.

 

 

PR/MB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

10.

 

Communication with BC

 

PR fed back to the group that the BC training programme which is being carried out this term has been very well received.

 

PR continues to keep in regular contact with BC which continues to facilitate a positive and growing trust across the authority for the role of governors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11

 

Consultative Board

 

PL is now the Chair of the Consultative Board.

MB will continue within the group. PR (seconded by AS) wished to thank MB for her tireless work and her professional drive as Chair. She has been instrumental in the positive foundations and steps she has achieved for governors across the county within this group.

 

The next Consultative Board meeting will be held on 9th December, 2020.

 

 
12 AOB PR informed the group he will pursue signatory authority for BASG so outstanding invoices may be paid.

 

PR
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

It was recommended that all meetings continue in the Autumn Term 2020 in a virtual format.

 

The next meeting of the BASG Executive group will be on Monday 9.11.2020 at 18.00

 

Meeting closed at 19.10

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 14/9/2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 14 September 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull,

Joanne Marchant, Peter Lerner, Gwyneth Langley, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Jo Pearce

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Jo Pearce

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

Communication – PR with BC/governors

(covered under Agenda item 10)

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

Gwyneth Langley – BEP

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 17.08.2020

 

 

Minutes approved

 

Follow up is on-going and addressed within the agenda

 

AS has been involved with the on-going follow up with PGL

 

If any schools are in the process of this, AS is happy to share her experiences about a possible resolution

Contact: anne.sheddick@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Membership

 

 

PR informed the group that Tomas Pukalski has requested that he does not attend meetings at present. He is happy to support with the maintenance of website and technical support, if required.

 

The Executive group wished to thank TP for his work for BASG and his contribution to the refreshed website.

 

The group discussed new membership to the committee and routes to take in order to achieve this. Networking groups may be a possible route, communication through BEP may be another.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

BEP update

 

GL gave comprehensive feedback of queries/questions BEP have received from other governors within Buckinghamshire.

 

These are:

·         Concerns about procedural matters during the present pandemic and how the virtual situation can proceed

·         Governor elections

·         Safeguarding

·         Provision of training for Managing allegations

·         SFVS – when will the deadline be this year (31.12.2020?)

·         Expectations from BC for Home Learning (DfE has issued a document outlining this)

·         Attendance – clarification that Home Learning is not an option if pupil does not need to isolate

·         LA appointment of governors

 

It is useful to have this overview of concerns across the authority and MB will make sure that the Consultative Board are kept up to date, so the voice of governors is being heard and a cyclical approach to communication is being actioned.

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Schools opening for more pupils

 

It has been encouraging to see positive reports through the media although there does still seem to be some confusion in social media.

 

There do seem to be some issues with social distancing outside schools at the end of the school day.

Good information is also being communicated through risk assessments including for Before and After School activities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

 

Networking groups

 

Aylesbury networking group is planning a virtual meeting on 30.09.2020.

 

AS will communicate about the next South Bucks networking group.

 

It would be good if these can be signposted as these groups are part of the processes in place within Bucks to help and support for governor communication across the county and are part of the network to ensure governors’ thoughts are being supplied.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

AGM 2020

 

BASG AGM – 14.01.2021 with Keynote speaker Emma Knights OBE (Chief Executive NGA)

 

In addition:

 

BASG Spotlight on Disadvantage with Sam Henson (Director of Policy and Information NGA) on either 30.11.2020 or 01.12.2020 TBC.

 

The group wished to express their thanks to AR for her on-going work to support the updating of the BASG website and social media avenues with current governor new/events.

 

 

PR/MB

 

10.

 

Communication with BC

 

The group thanked PR for sharing with the committee the letter he sent out to governors explaining about the confusion which had inadvertently arisen regarding agendas and the template used for FGB’s in the Autumn Term. The Committee thanked PR for the swift follow up he had provided on the matter and his accompanying explanation.

 

PR highlighted the work which has taken place with BC on:

 

·         Training (overview of virtual training for governors provided by BC)

·         Agenda coverage for FGB’s for Autumn 2020

·         Work with HT’s

·         Induction

·         Leadership briefings run by BC (due to take place September/October)

 

PR continues to work closely with BC to ensure the relationship is productive.

 

The question was asked as to whether Leadership Briefings could be opened up to all governors beyond Heads and Chairs.

Thank you to JM for following up on this. It was clarified that these meetings need to remain as access for Heads and Chairs only.

 

However, it was stated that Chairs should ensure if their attendance is not possible that their Board is represented at the ‘meeting’ by anther fellow governor.

Also, Chairs should ensure their Board is updated on the information provided at the briefing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JM

 

 

11

 

Consultative Board

 

MB is working with BC on finalizing the Agenda for the next Consultative meeting and will take into account input from the agenda items from this meeting. The template agenda will be used but anticipates Safeguarding and Public health will be present as an agenda item.

 

MB informed the group that she intends to step down from her role as Chair of the Consultative Board and has proposed PL to take over the role. PL has extensive knowledge as a manager of working with local councils at a senior level. MB intends to approach a HT to second this. She will also make contact with other members of the Consultative Board.

 

 
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

It was recommended that all meetings continue in the Autumn Term 2020 in a virtual format.

 

Monday 12.10.2020 at 18.00

 

Meeting closed at 19.25

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 17/8/2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 17 August 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull, Jo Pearce,

Joanne Marchant, Peter Lerner, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

 

Gwyneth Langley, Tomas Pukalski

 

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Gwyneth Langley

Tomas Pukalski

 

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

·         Autumn Term agendas

·         Clerking

·         AGM

 

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 7.07.2020

 

 

Minutes approved – follow up is on-going

(Newsletter, website, AGM)

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Consultative Board

 

 

MB is due to meet with SJ with an agenda focused on governance.

MB chairs the Consultative Board and liaises with BC. Attendance of officers is important so as to ensure representation and involvement in agenda items and coverage of LA responsibilities.

Terms of reference need to be updated.

In the present circumstances, it was considered to be important for a presence at the meeting from ‘Public Health’.

MB will follow up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MB

 

6.

 

Communication with

Buckinghamshire County Council (BC)

 

PR is looking at agendas for governance and the coming term/year and its circulation. He will follow up with a couple of members of the group.

 

PR is at present in discussion with BC regarding the training agenda for the coming school year.

 

Discussion took place about an annual planner for school governance showing what is required within governance over a school year. Although these are available through governor organisations it is important to have dates/deadlines included from a local perspective.

 

Discussion also took place about whether there will be virtual LA briefings, as face to face meetings have not taken place since the beginning of 2020.

School Improvement does need to be considered and how the Side by Side initiative is being taken through into 2020/21. It was felt that School Improvement should be linked with Governance consistently.

 

 

PR

 

 

7.

 

Networking Groups

 

It was felt that it would be helpful for Networking groups to receive key information of events from the Consultative Board and the LA so as to ensure clear knowledge and communication of relevant information across governance in Buckinghamshire.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

 

School opening for more pupils

 

There is a wealth of information available from:

·         Buckinghamshire Council

·         DfE

·         NGA

·         The Key

 

Discussion about the resumption of Ofsted visits as of the end of September. It was felt that more information regarding this would be helpful. Concerns were raised about additional pressures for schools in the present situation of settling all pupils and staff back to school.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

AGM 2020

 

PR and MB are following up on organizing ‘speakers’ for the event which will take place in Spring 2021.

 

 

PR/MB

 

10.

 

AOB

 

Clerking – Agenda for Autumn Term 2020

PR and JP will link on this

 

PGL – There has been follow up by schools on reimbursement of funds to parents.

AS recommended that schools/governors continue to follow up on this consistently so as to ensure PGL do respond. It is important that this does not have an impact on disadvantaged pupils/families

 

PR/JP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

It was recommended that all meetings continue in the Autumn Term in a virtual format.

 

Monday 14.09.2020 at 18.00

 

 

Meeting finished at 19.25

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 27/7/2020

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 27 July 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull, Joanne Marchant, Gwyneth Langley, Tomas Pukalski

Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Jo Pearce

Peter Lerner

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Jo Pearce

Peter Lerner

 

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

 

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

Gwyneth Langley – BEP

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 7.07.2020

 

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Consultative Board

 

 

Anita Kramer, Simon James and Gareth Drawmer attended the last meeting on 16.07.2020.

Discussion took place regarding work linked to the disadvantaged.

Heads and chairs should discuss the use of ‘catch up money’ and ‘tutor money’ within their schools.

 

 

Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) has carried out considerable work in this area.

Richard Nash (Service Director for Children’s Social Care) is involved in the follow up.

It was considered that it would be helpful if this could be shared with a wider audience than just the Consultative Board.

 

Discussion took place with regard to increasing the awareness of all governors as to the different groups/communication routes within Buckinghamshire and how their work links together so as to improve the outcomes for schools and pupils across the authority.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

Communication with

Buckinghamshire County Council (BC)

 

Positive communications continue between BASG and BC which helps to move forward  the important role and information for governors .

 

PR, as chair of BASG, provides regular updates on new information relevant to governors which is circulated to chairs by BC across the authority.

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Networking Groups

 

Aylesbury Networking group met virtually on 13.07.2020

 

Discussion was based around:\

 

·         How the present COVID situation has tested the resilience and resolve of HT

·         How the importance of local networking groups becomes increasingly important especially with new HT’s/Chairs taking up appointments

·         How some schools have surveyed pupils to access overall level of anxiety with some responding very differently, even within the same family

·         How concerns have been raised by local HT’s about SEND support and how the responsibilities of officers have had to be spread thinly

·         Pressure within Buckinghamshire on how to close an increasing gap between the performance of most pupils and those disadvantaged and vulnerable

·         Some schools evidenced that relationships with parents had improved during the present situation and how this positive development can continue

·         Support for governors from BC appears to have reduced in the present structure and how important BASG and local networking supports remain

·         It is anticipated the group will ‘meet’ next in October 2020

 

AS suggested that the Resources page on the BASG website page could probably have some of the information archived.

AS will link with TP on this

 

TP was able to update the group on the increasing awareness of the BASG website/social media involvement:

 

·         176 signed up to the website (60%) actively engaged

·         From May 2020 – 27.7.2020 there were 370 users which showed access to at least 2 pages and spent on average 1min 33 secs viewing

·         Unusual spike of 64 people on 8.6.2020

·         Facebook shows 56 followers

·         Twitter has 115 followers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AS/TP

 

 

8.

 

School opening for more pupils

 

Considerable official guidance/information is available to schools from:

·         Buckinghamshire Council

·         DfE

·         NGA

·         The Key

 

A very helpful ‘Public Health for Governors’ training was provided by BC and held virtually on Wednesday 24th June

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

AGM 2020

 

It was decided that the BASG AGM should be held in Spring 2021

 

Possibilities for ‘visiting’ presenter:

 

·         Sam Henson (Director of Policy and Information NGA) He was due to lead the BASG March 2020 event on ‘Disadvantaged’ but it had to be cancelled because of COVID 19

·         Richard Nash (Director for Children’s Social Care BC)

·         Emma Knight – (Chief Executive NGA)

 

PR will link with MB regarding securing presenter/s

AS also said she may have some links to possibly presenters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR/MB

 

10.

 

AOB

 

Discussion took place about  BASG website:

 

·         Mission statement

·         Strapline

·         More strategic

·         Regular newsletter – this could include overview of the groups in existence within BC., their roles and how it all dovetails

·         Strategic overview

·         BASG being a regular agenda item on governor board meetings

·         Increasing governor board diversity – how to increase governing board diversity to reflect the diversity of the school community. NGA (linked with Inspiring Governance) have highlighted why it is important to have a diverse governing board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JM/PR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TP/PR

 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

Monday 17.08.2020 at 18.00

 

 

Meeting finished at 19.30

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 17th July 2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 7 July 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull, Peter Lerner, Joanne Marchant, Jo Pearce, Gwyneth Langley

Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Tomas Pukalski – received and accepted

 

 

   

Agenda Subject

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Tomas Pukalski

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

 

PGL Travel

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

Gwyneth Langley – BEP

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 16.06.2020

 

 

Minutes approved with the amendments, as below.

 

Agenda Item 5

 

There remains a vacancy for a parent governor on the Select Committee. It does involve a big commitment but it would be helpful for the vacancy to be filled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Consultative Board

 

 

The next scheduled meeting is planned for 16.07.2020

 

It would probably be better to have dates set within the yearly schedule of BC dates.

The use of ‘Teams’ as the virtual meeting set up does result in some technical issues with some forms of hardware for participants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

Side by Side Reference Group

 

There continues to be some co-ordination issues regarding the organization of meetings, minutes and attendance.

There needs to be analysis of what is working regarding this provision with a possible SWOT analysis. The model is good in principal but not in execution.

There are no dates at present for moving forward.

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Communications with Buckinghamshire Council (BC)

 

PR’s communication with BC continues on behalf of BASG and governance across the county.

Information regarding September and the reopening of schools for all pupils has been issued from BC.

BASG profile has increased over the last year which is supportive of governance across Buckinghamshire.

 

 
 

8.

 

Networking groups

 

The South Bucks and Aylesbury networking groups continue to meet virtually.

 

The Aylesbury group is not only attended by Chairs and facilitates a variety of governor attendees. This was thought to be a networking opportunity for all governors and opens up succession planning.

 

Discussion took place linked to attendance at these meetings by BASG representatives so as to get a further cross section of governors input across the authority.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

Governor Training

 

Online virtual training from BC has continued with a Public Health webinar for Governors which was informative.

 

Reference was made to the NGA webinar for

Virtual Governance: Planning for the Autumn term and what do boards need to do linked

 

into their monitoring role. This provided a

good overview of the role of governance in this important area.

 

 

 

 

 

10.

 

NGA & Learning Link membership

 

Thank you to PR for continuing to follow up regarding the communication to Governing Boards of NGA membership.

An email has now been sent to Chairs confirming that BC will provide membership to NGA including the Learning Link through the next school year.

If boards wish to upgrade this to Gold membership, there will be an additional charge of £158.

Information was also included for Academies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

 

Schools opening for more pupils

 

 

The opening of schools for all pupils in September continues as a major priority at the moment.

A plethora of information exists from NGA, BC, DfE of how schools need to prepare for September and beyond.

Further guidance will continue to be issued.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

 

AGM 2020

 

 

 

Discussion took place regarding planning for the BASG AGM

MB will ask Emma Knights from NGA for her availability to present at such an event.

It is anticipated the AGM would take place in November 2020 which is well within the timeline required for the next AGM.

 

 

 

 

MB

   

AOB

 

AS referred to the fact that discussions are taking place with the LA regarding reimbursement to parents for school trips which have been made through PGL but not taken place. It was felt this money should be repaid to parents, and governors should ensure this happens.

NGA are aware of this and are following up on this matter.

 

 
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

Tuesday 27.07.2020 at 18.00

 

Meeting finished at 19.10

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASG Executive Minutes 16th June 2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 16 June 2020 at 18.00 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Maggi Bull, Peter Lerner, Tomas Pukalski, Joanne Marchant, Jo Pearce, Gwyneth Langley

Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair) – received and accepted

 

Start of the meeting was delayed to 18.25 through technical issues.

 

   

Agenda Subject

 

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Anne Sheddick

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

None

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 6.05.2020

 

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Consultative Board

 

 

The scheduled meeting was cancelled because of a clash with another important meeting with members.

As of yet, there is no rescheduled date. MB will continue to follow up as the group felt it would be good to ensure such a meeting took place prior to the summer break.

 

 

There remains a vacancy for a parent governor on the Board. It does involve a big commitment but it would be helpful for the vacancy to be filled.

Further communication about this would be helpful.

 

 

 

 

 

MB

 

 

6.

 

Side by Side Reference Group

 

There was a virtual meeting but attendance was low – agenda was late in arriving and also the late arrival of minutes may have been a contributory factor.

A SWOT analysis has taken place with the question about whether an action plan will follow so as to be able to plan the way forward.

Governance was flagged up.

Yvette Thomas thanked BASG for their continued support during this meeting.

 

18.38pm JP joined the meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Communications with Buckinghamshire Council (BC)

 

PR has had a positive skype meeting with Simon James (Service Director – Education).

The discussion was based on working with BASG/Governance across the County.

 

 
 

8.

 

Networking groups

 

The Aylesbury networking group (usually facilitated by MB) continues to meet regularly through Zoom with the focus mainly on pupils returning to school in the present situation.

The group usually has 11/12 attendees.

Another meeting is expected before the close of the summer term – date to be arranged.

The group are very receptive to receiving any relevant information from BASG regarding governance. BA attends this group and will provide this information moving forwards.

 

 

South Bucks (AS Chair) met over the weekend.

Discussion took place around the opening of schools which highlighted the range across the authority.

Concerns regarding plans for the summer and September were shared within the group.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

Governor Training

 

Online training from BC has been organized for Governors:

 

 

·         Equalities (possible repeat session as oversubscribed)

·         Public Health for Governors

·         E-safety

 

The sign up has been very positive.

 

 

 

 

 

10.

 

NGA & Learning Link membership

 

PR will continue to follow up regarding the communication to Governing Boards.

It was felt that Academies also need to be informed.

 

PR

 

 

 

 

 

11.

 

Schools opening for more pupils

 

 

This is a major priority at the moment.

An array of information has been delivered to schools. It is important to be clear what the next steps are going to be for schools and their leaders.

Each school has been assigned a support officer from BC.

 

PL left the meeting at 18.59 as he needed to attend another meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

 

AOB

 

 

 

None

 

 
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

Tuesday 7.07.2020 at 18.00

 

(JP will send the Zoom link prior to the meeting)

 

Meeting finished at 19.10

 

 

 

 

JP

 

BASG Minutes 6th May 2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 6 May 2020 at 11.00 – 12.15 hours

 

Location: Virtual meeting through Zoom

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull, Peter Lerner, Tomas Pukalski, Joanne Marchant, Jo Pearce, Gwyneth Langley

Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

None

 

   

Agenda Subject

 

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

None

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

Clerk question

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 19.02.2020

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

Consultative Board

 

 

Once the minutes from the last Consultative Board meeting are on the BC website they can be added to the BASG website.

 

Next meeting of the Consultative Board will be 16.06.2020.

 

Discussion is taking place regarding which platform to use for the virtual meeting of the group.

 

Concern was raised about the fact the BC website is out of date with reference to this group.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

Side by Side Reference Group

 

There are no minutes from the last Side by Side reference group meeting.

This continues to be a concern that minutes do not seem to be circulated to attendees after each meeting.

 

Concern was also raised about the fact the BC website is out of date with reference to this group.

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

Communications with Buckinghamshire Council (BC)

 

PR, AS and MB are in frequent contact with BC regarding governance matters across the authority.

 

NGA membership for schools in BC is still to be announced.

 

Information regarding COVID 19 is collated on the BC SchoolsWeb.

 

The group felt that communication to governors needs to be consistent and with understanding about what the role of governance involves.

 

The document collated by PR helps to bring clarity and consistency to governorship during the present pandemic situation. It was based on NGA guidance.

 

PR will continue to work on ensuring effective communication with governors is a goal.

 

 
 

8.

 

Governor Training

 

PR, MB, and AS are in discussions regarding the possibility of collating the training that was planned before the pandemic to make sure the opportunity is not lost.

 

Discussion took place around how feasible virtual sessions are and what format they should take. Consideration needs to be given to whether such training would be in the format of a presentation or whether there could be the possibility of some form of interaction. Consideration needs to be given to the skills required to present and the support mechanisms available including IT, whichever route is chosen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR to follow up

 

9.

 

NGA and Learning Link

 

As referred to under Agenda item 7 membership of schools to NGA is still to be announced to schools.

 

 

 

PR to follow up

 

 

10.

 

Royal Society for Arts (RSA)

 

AS informed the group that she has submitted a bid for funding for BASG to support the website and training post lockdown.

The bid had to be submitted in 150 words within a tight timeline.

The group thanked AS for seeing and following up on this opportunity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

 

Return of all schools

 

 

The group discussed this important issue for the education sector.

It was felt that the collation of information was very important so as to ensure recommendations were clear.

 

Emma Knights – Chief Executive NGA is in regular contact with HT unions and will be proactive in providing guidance for governance.

 

Consideration needs to be given to the fact that schools are different and so are their challenges and there are so many different messages and information being circulated.

Global guidance may also not be a ‘fit to all’.

 

A possible Council helpline was discussed which could be manned by knowledgeable ‘staff’

 

Discussion took place about how important it is in this virtual environment, to check whether BASG website is being seen as a place to visit to provide relevant information.

It was decided that TP would include the facility within the web set up to provide this analytical data.

Information like this can be used as a marketing tool for ‘hits’ on the website and its awareness amongst the governor community.

This will produce some additional work, PR volunteered to support TP with this

 

NB

TP informed BASG Executive group, after the meeting, that this has now been put in place 06.05.2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TP

 

 

PR

 

 

12.

 

AOB

 

 

 

PR informed the group of a request from a clerk of a small school for a Chair.

 

It was suggested that a section on the website to flag up such requests may be useful.

 

 
 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting  

Future date for BASG virtual meeting to be arranged once there is further clarity on the return/phasing of pupils to school.

 

 

Meeting finished at 12.10

 

 

 

 

 

BASG Minutes 9th March 2020

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 9 March 2020 at 18.30 – 20.30 hours

 

Location: Loudwater Combined School, School Way, Kingsmead Road, Loudwater, Bucks HP11 1JJ

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Maggi Bull, Peter Lerner, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Tomas Pukalski

Joanne Marchant

Jo Pearce

Gwyneth Langley

   

Agenda Subject

 

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Tomas Pukalski, Joanne Marchant,

Jo Pearce, Gwyneth Langley

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

Home/School transport

 
 

3.

 

Declaration of interest

 

 

Maggi Bull – Chair of NGA

 
 4. Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 19.02.2020

 

 

Agenda item 5

 

We now have a student (AR) linked to the Duke of Edinburgh Awards providing social media updates with input from PR

‘The Story’ section on the Facebook page will be updated by AR. It should describe the group’s mission and should be consistent with the wording on the website.

 

Meetings and Events page on the webpage needs some adjusting. At present the date shown is when the information was posted, rather than the date of the event, which is confusing. Future postings will be posted in a way to so as to avoid this confusion.

 

Agenda Item 6

PR will arrange to pay Framework Digital for hosting of website

 

Agenda item 7

Correction to postcode for Booker Park Community School, HP21 9ET

 

Agenda item 8

A section for Clerking vacancies on BASG website is still to be actioned.

 

Agenda item 14

Should read…Training for Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

 

 

Minutes approved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PR

 

5.

 

 

 

Yvette Thomas

 

 

Yvette spoke to the group regarding her role at BCC and the understanding of Governance in Buckinghamshire and the partnership with BASG.

Yvette expressed how important she felt governance is.

BASG is an independent organization and it is essential for BASG to maintain a strategic overview.

Networking groups across the authority provide information which can feed into BASG providing the voice of governance.

Discussion took place regarding governor champions and the importance of this role and how it would need to be implemented.

 

The group thanked Yvette for attending the meeting and giving of her time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

Website, Facebook, Twitter

 

AR met with TP to discuss our media setup and how to develop.

AR will continue to work on this.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

BASG accounts

 

PR will make payment to Framework Digital for hosting the website.

 

 

PR

 

 

8.

 

Spring Term event

 

At present this event will go ahead but will be reassessed depending on the government public health advice regarding Covid 19.

 

We have approximately 50 registered for the event on 25.03.2020 at 18.00 – 21.30 at Booker Park Community School, HP21 9ET

 

Arrangements are in place for this.

PR will introduce the event with a brief presentation.

AS will send out information including parking details to attendees a week prior to the event.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

Clerking

 

No update at present.

 

 

 

 

 

10.

 

Side by Side Reference group

 

This group met in the week beginning 24.02.2020.

No minutes or slides have been made available yet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

 

School Governance Consultative Board

 

 

A meeting took place on 4.03.2020.

 

Matters discussed:

·         all Chairs should be set up with an email account  chairs@ This will be communicated on schoolsweb.

 

·         need to ensure governing boards are aware there is legal assistance available through the Gold membership to NGA

 

·         NGA membership for schools will continue through for 2020/21

 

·         Governor champions

 

·         Clerking as central in the governing board

 

·         Safeguarding training being provided by BCC was welcomed but more is required

 

·         Importance of the curriculum

 

·         Side by Side and the role of governors

 

·         HR policies and protocols from BCC

 

·         Mentoring for Chairs

 

·         Attendance at meetings by governors and Officers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

 

AOB

 

 

 

Home/School transport

 

BASG are aware that as of 1 January 2020 a PSVAR (Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations) enforcement came into place nationally.  This means that every vehicle carrying 22 or more paying passengers on a scheduled route would have to have wheelchair accessibility.

Obviously this is of concern.

Local Transport providers are following up.

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting

 

Next meetings:

 

25.03.2020 – BASG Spring Event at Booker Park Community School, Stoke Leys, Close, Aylesbury HP21 9ET 18.00 – 21.30

(Postponed as on 15.03.2020)

 

Future dates for BASG meeting to be arranged

 

Meeting finished at 20.45

 

Thank you to Loudwater Combined School for providing the venue and to PR for organising.

 

 

 

 

 

Minutes 19th February 2020

 

Meeting: BASG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

 

Date & Time: 19 February 2020 at 19.00 – 21.30 hours

 

Location: Waterside Primary Academy, Chesham, Bucks HP5 1QU

 

Present:

 

 

 

Apologies:

Paul Randall (Chair), Anne Sheddick (Vice Chair), Jo Pearce (Treasurer), Joanne Marchant, Gwyneth Langley, Bernadette Allison (Secretary)

 

Maggi Bull

Tomas Pukalski

Peter Lerner

 

 

   

Agenda Subject

 

   

Action

 

1.

 

Apologies for absence

 

 

Maggi Bull, Tomas Pukalski, Peter Lerner

 
 

2.

 

Notification of any other business

 

·         DSL Training

 

 
3.  

Declaration of interest

 

 

None related to the agenda

 
 

4.

 

Approval of minutes from the meeting held on 21.01.2020

 

Agenda item 5

We now have a student (AR) linked to the Duke of Edinburgh Awards providing social media updates with input from PR

 

Agenda item 14

GL followed up on this item and BASG will be welcomed to the next BEP conference

 

Minutes approved.

 
 

5.

 

 

 

Website, Facebook, Twitter

 

·         The website is up to date with posts. If there are any outstanding actions required, please email TP.

·         The poll about DFE consultation is now closed. AS will collate responses and submit.

·        Facebook page has 60 followers. We need 100 to be noticed by Facebook.

·         We need to update ‘The Story’ section on the Facebook page. It should describe the group’s mission and should be consistent with the wording on the website. Once the wording is agreed, email TP.

·         The last Mailchimp campaign was sent on 31st Jan “Spotlight on Disadvantage” It went to 170 people, 45% opened and  10 clicked Book on Eventbrite. We can send the same campaign next month, 1 week before the next event with update, last minute message and directions/parking arrangements.

·         Meetings and Events page on the webpage needs some adjusting. At present the date shown is when the information was posted, rather than the date of the event, which is confusing.

·         It was felt that the collation of the events this year would be helpful to be drawn together in the format of a newsletter which would be circulated by mail chimp. JM volunteered to do this.

 

 

JM to follow up

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

JM

 

6.

 

BASG accounts

We are still waiting to have feedback regarding bills to be paid.

 

·         Hosting of the website

·         Reimbursement for gift for speaker at BASG AGM

·         Any expenditure linked to refreshments at the AGM

 

Paperwork linked to accounts is still with the auditor. We have agreed that we no longer

need to have our accounts audited.

AS will collect this paperwork and pass it to

JP who will then collate and file what is required to be kept.

At present, the accounts rest at £1140.38 and £3301.96 in a reserve account which is adequate to pay current bills.

 

PR

 

 

 

 

 AS

JP

 

 

7.

 

Spring Term event

The speaker is confirmed as Sam Henson from NGA. He will present on ‘Spotlight on Disadvantaged’

At present, we have approximately 50 registered for the event on 25.03.2020 at 18.00 – 21.30 at Booker Park Community School, H21 9ET

Refreshments will be provided.

Information regarding directions and parking will be sent out at the beginning of March by AS. There will be no charge to attendees.

Arrangements will be finalized at our next BASG meeting on 9.03.2020

 

AS

8. Clerking JP is still waiting to receive information from GD regarding the suggestion of Clerk Briefings.

 

A section for Clerking vacancies on BASG website is still to be actioned.

 

 

 Website

 

9.

 

Networking meetings

It was felt that it is very useful to receive feedback from local networking groups across the county. Feedback sheets have been completed and this information from governors will be fed back through consultative groups.

 

At present the following network groups are known to exist:

 

Area              

South Bucks – Anne Sheddick for Chairs & Vice Chairs (Signposted on website & Tweeted)

 

Aylesbury –      Martin Baxter (Signposted on    website & Tweeted)

(BA will attend this group).

 

Great Marlow – Sally Brookes.

(JP will attend this group).

 

 

Amersham/Chesham – possible revival of group

(JM will attend this group)

 

Wycombe – Simon Kearey

(Signposted on website & Tweeted)

(PR will attend this group)

 

Members of BASG try to be part of as many of these groups as possible.

A proforma is available for each group to feedback to BASG so the collective voice of governors is recognized and fed into the consultative groups which function across Buckinghamshire

 

·         Schools Forum

·         Side by Side Reference Group

·         School Governance Consultative Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.

 

DfE Consultation

The following consultation was discussed:

 

https://consult.education.gov.uk/inspection-and-accountability-division/removal-of-the-outstanding-exemption/

 

A Twitter conversation gained insight from a wider pool of governors and informed a response which AS will respond to from BASG.

 

 

 

 AS

11. Side by Side Reference group This group is due to meet in the week beginning 24.02.2020.

PR will follow up on availability of minutes from the previous meeting and agenda

 PR
12.  

 

School Governance Consultative Board

 

 

 

 

It is understood that the next meeting will be on 4.03.2020.

It was felt that Schools Forum, Side by Side, School Governance Consultative Board should be joined up in communicating and feedback. It was suggested that meetings should have some form of standardization in their agendas with local structures related to governance.

 
13. BEP Conference BASG will have the opportunity to speak at the BEP Conference on 26.06.2020.

It would also be possible for BASG to have a stand.

GL was thanked for following up on this from the last meeting

 
14. AOB Training for Designated School Lead (DSL)

The availability and timing of various options were discussed. It appears there may be some updates in progress regarding this role.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date and venue of next meeting Next meetings:

 

9.03.2020 at Loudwater Combined School,

Kingsmead Rd, Loudwater, High Wycombe HP11 1JJ at 19.00

(Apologies from JM)

 

25.03.2020 – BASG Spring Event at Booker Park Community School, Stoke Leys, Close, Aylesbury HP21 9ET 18.00 – 21.30

 

 

Meeting finished at 21.30

 

Thank you to Waterside Primary Academy for providing the venue and to JP for organising.