Who is it for?

Clerks with at least 4 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, starting in September 2025 for the first cohort

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

Who is it for?

Clerks with between 18 months and 4 years’ experience in a clerking role.

How long will it take:   

6 months, starting in early 2026 for the first cohort

What will I learn?

The Intermediate level is designed for Clerks with some experience who are ready to deepen their understanding and enhance their strategic capabilities. This course focuses on refining skills such as crafting strategic agendas, advising governing bodies, and managing more complex governance challenges. Participants will also explore their role in fostering stronger relationships with key stakeholders, preparing boards forinspections, and supporting the overall effectiveness of governance. 

• Module 1 - Enhancing Governance Knowledge​
  • Deep Dive into Governance Frameworks
  • Exploring the strategic role of governance in driving school improvement

• ​Module 2 - Advance Meeting Management​
  • Strategic Agendas and Chair Support
  • Quality Minute-Taking

• Module 3 - Leadership in Governance​
  • Advisory Role of the Clerk
  • Supporting the Board in Strategic Thinking

• Module 4 - Strengthening Relationships​
  • Building Strong Relationships with Key Stakeholders
  • Conflict Resolution and Difficult Conversations

• Module 5 - Governance Improvement and Evaluation​
  • Annual Governance Cycle and Self-Evaluation
  • Inspection Preparation

• Module 6: Professional Growth & Networking
  • Continued Professional Development
  • The Clerk as a Governance Leader

Who is it for?

Clerks in their first 2 years of a clerking role.

How long will it take:   

6 months, starting in early 2026 for the first cohort

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​

  • Introduction to the Clerk’s Role

  • Governance Frameworks

  • Building Relationships

• Module 2 - Meeting Management Skills​
  • ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Preparation for Meetings​
  • Minute-Taking and Documentation
  • Use of AI to Support

• Module 3: Legal & Regulatory Compliance ​

  • ​​​​​​​Governance Compliance

  • Risk Management

• Module 4: Strategic Support for Governors 

  • ​​​​​​​Supporting Governors Effectively

  • Annual Governance Cycle

• Module 5: Communication & Relationship Management
  • ​​​​​​​Effective Communication
  • Conflict resolution

• Module 6: Reflections & Continuous Development​

  • Self-Assessment and Improvement

  • Next steps