Why take part in the Governance Professionals' Programme (GPP)?
Participants will benefit from opportunities to network, share best practice, and build meaningful, lasting professional relationships across the independent schools' sector. Each level runs over six months and combines expert-led content with practical learning. Find out more about the different levels available below:
GPP Levels Available:
GPP Advanced
Who is it for?
Clerks with at least 2 years’ experience in a clerking role or who are able to evidence learning/experience in a related field
How long will it take:
6 months, with the next cohort starting in April 2026
What will I learn?
The Advanced Level is taught over 6 modules, which include a mixture of in-person and online events as well as a range of self-study activities, reflective journalling and podcasts. There is also the opportunity to network and work collaboratively with other participants and to take part in active feedback sessions to enhance your own practice and understanding.
Participants will delve into high-level governance strategy, crisis management, and innovative practices for supporting Boards in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
- Module 1 – Governance Strategy in Practice
- Governance alignment with the school vision
- Enhancing board performance
- Module 2 – Expert Advisory Skills
- Providing high-level advisory support
- Addressing complex governance challenges
- Module 3 – Assessing and Advancing Governance
- Conducting governance audits
- Developing governance improvement plans
- Module 4 – Mentoring and Leadership Development
- Mentoring and coaching skills
- Leadership within governance
- Module 5 – Strategic Governance Planning
- Crafting governance strategies
- Collaborative decision-making
- Module 6 – Sustaining Governance Excellence
- Embedding best practices
- Leading governance innovation
Proudly sponsored by VWV
GPP Foundation
Who is it for?
Clerks in their first 2 years of a clerking role.
How long will it take:
6 months, with the next cohort starting in September 2026 - dates to be confirmed.
What will I learn?
The Foundation level is specifically crafted for Clerks at the start of their clerking career. It lays a strong foundation in governance essentials, covering everything from the legal framework to effective meeting management. Participants gain a clear understanding of their responsibilities, build key relationships with school leaders and develop the practical skills needed to support governing bodies effectively.
Module 1: Induction & Essentials
Module 2: Meetings Management Skills
Module 3: Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Module 4: Strategic Support for Governors
Module 5: Communication & Relationship Management
Module 6: Reflections & Continuous Development
Ready to join?
ADVANCED Programme - New cohort booking for April 2026
Our next cohort of the Advanced level programme will run from April 2026 for 6 months (with a break for summer). Places on all cohorts will be limited to ensure opportunities for networking and successful group work.
FOUNDATION Programme - Next cohort in September 2026
Our pilot cohort of the Foundation level programme is underway. If you're interested in joining the next cohort in September, please register your interest now - places on all cohorts will be limited to ensure opportunities for networking and successful group work.
