Governance is for everyone

Board diversity is about having a range of voices and experiences present around the governing board table, because all children need and deserve representation – especially in their schools. Diversity of thought is also essential for board effectiveness. 

In its governance handbook, The DfE states: "It is important that boards reflect the diversity of the school/trust communities that they serve. Consideration should be given to all the protected characteristics. Diverse boards promote inclusive school environments and provide diverse role models for staff and young people.”

GovernorHub conducted a survey and published a report in 2022, The Missing Pool of Talent on School Governing Boards, which found that, among those surveyed, governors and trustees were typically older (35+), white and more educated. Governors themselves also reported that while their boards were diverse in terms of gender, they were much less so for age, ethnicity, social class and disability. This backed up similar findings from the National Governance Association's 2021 report, Increasing Participation in School and Trust Governance. 

The lack of diversity in governance isn't a new problem. And yet despite all the time, research and initiatives dedicated to this, too many boards still struggle to reflect the true diversity in their communities or the wider population.

It's hoped that by collecting and reporting this information, boards will become more aware of this issue and better able to support underrepresented groups to take their seat at the table.

You can read more about the Department for Education's updated guidance to boards on collecting and publishing diversity data here:

• What maintained schools must publish online
• What academies, free schools and colleges must or should publish online