Policy & Practice: A Governor’s Perspective
Governance
Leadership in education is not only about setting strategic direction but also about bridging the gap between policy and practice. As a former Chair of Governors and now a Multi-Academy Trust Trustee, I have had the privilege of engaging at this critical intersection, where governance decisions directly influence classroom experiences and, ultimately, student outcomes.
The role of governance in shaping practice
At its heart, governance is about ensuring clarity of vision, ethos, and strategic direction while holding leaders accountable for educational and financial performance. But beyond compliance, effective governance creates a culture where decisions are driven by evidence, ambition, and a relentless focus on equity.
During my tenure as Chair of Governors, I saw how policy frameworks can feel distant to practitioners unless translated into practical, meaningful actions. For example, safeguarding and inclusion policies are powerful only when they inform everyday classroom routines, teacher development, and student support systems. This alignment requires governors to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and support leaders in turning aspirations into tangible progress.
The Power of Strategic Oversight
Governors do not manage schools day to day, but we hold the levers of accountability and assurance. My experience of overseeing Ofsted inspections highlighted how crucial it is to maintain rigorous self-evaluation processes and accurate data interpretation. Strong governance ensures that strengths are celebrated, weaknesses are addressed proactively, and every decision is rooted in improving outcomes for all learners, especially those most disadvantaged.
It is also about being future-focused. Governance is not reactive; it is strategic. Whether reviewing curriculum intent, monitoring pupil premium impact, or challenging on teacher workload, governors must anticipate challenges and create the conditions where school leaders can thrive.
Policy Meets People
One of my strongest reflections is that policy without people is powerless. Behind every attendance target or attainment statistic are young people whose life chances depend on our decisions. Effective governance balances policy fidelity with practical compassion - ensuring that strategies support teachers in their work and meet students where they are.
I learned that empowering educators means not just approving professional development frameworks, but actively fostering a culture where CPD is seen as an investment, not an obligation. Supporting leaders to embed continuous professional learning creates ripple effects across the whole school.
Lessons for Leaders and Educators
From my journey as Chair of Governors, here are three insights for leaders and educators navigating the policy-practice intersection:
Stay Curious, Ask Questions - Robust governance is not about knowing all the answers, but about asking the right questions that shine light on blind spots and drive reflective practice.
Connect Policy to Purpose - Policies must always tie back to the school’s vision. If staff cannot see the “why,” implementation will falter.
Balance Challenge with Support - The most effective governance creates a climate of high expectations coupled with genuine support, so that leaders feel both accountable and empowered.
Moving Forward
As I continue my journey in education leadership, I remain convinced that the bridge between policy and practice is built through strong, values-driven governance. By engaging deeply with both strategy and classroom reality, governors and trustees can help shape systems that are ambitious, inclusive, and transformative.
Education is not just about structures and frameworks - it is about people. And when policy and practice are aligned with clarity, compassion, and courage, we create the conditions where every learner can thrive.
Geetika Goyal – Physics Educator, Governance Leader, and Advocate for Equity in Education.
