The Trust Board delegates some responsibilities to Local Advocacy Committees. These committees are school level committees established to look at school-level matters on behalf of the Trust Board. Their responsibilities are set out in the trust scheme of delegation.

Advocacy committees will:

Monitor stakeholder engagement:

• Understand how schools communicate with stakeholders and review its effectiveness.
• Support the trust’s strategy with particular regard for civic and community engagement
• Build strong relationships with school stakeholders (parents, pupils, staff, wider community)
• Welcome communication from stakeholders
• Participate in ad hoc panels (such as complaints or appeals) as required by the trust
• Create and support opportunities to market the school and trust in the wider community to help the headteacher to build its profile and reputation.
• Oversee school website content in terms of community engagement.
• Support student councils and parent forums.
• Engage effectively with learners and others in their community, including – where relevant – parents, carers, employers and local services
• Ensure that wellbeing is embedded within the culture of the school for the headteacher, staff, and pupils.
• Promote and celebrate events organised by the Trust and its schools.

Monitor standards:

• Receive and review high level information on pupil progress, attainment, behaviour and attendance
• Provide support and challenge to the headteacher through curiosity and in support of trust and school plans, but mindful that the CEO and Director of Education are responsible for standards and line management.
• Pay particular attention to the effectiveness of support and the quality of education of the most vulnerable pupils with a particular focus on SEND, Safeguarding, and any disadvantaged pupil groups.
• Appoint safeguarding, SEND, and careers (Secondary only) link governors
• Review the school risk register and manage risks appropriately

How can I find out more?

You can view the Mowbray Education Trust Governance Handbook here.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a Local Advocacy Committee Member, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Chris Forrest, Governance and Compliance Director, at [email protected].