St Mary’s CofE Primary School is part of Chess Valley Primary Learning Trust. The Trust has established a clear governance structure with defined lines of accountability and responsibility to ensure all schools are effectively supported, challenged and strategically led.

The governance structure enables leaders, governors and trustees to work together to ensure high-quality education, strong financial oversight and positive outcomes for all children.

Governance Structure

The governance of the Trust is made up of three key levels:

Members

Members act as guardians of the Trust’s governance arrangements. They hold an overview of the Trust and have specific legal powers, including appointing and removing Trustees and amending the Articles of Association. Members help ensure the Trust remains true to its charitable purpose and that governance remains effective.

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees (also known as Directors) is responsible for the strategic leadership and oversight of the Trust. Trustees hold executive leaders to account, oversee financial performance and ensure statutory duties are fulfilled.

The Board is responsible for:

• Setting the strategic direction and vision of the Trust
• Ensuring strong educational outcomes across all schools
• Overseeing safeguarding and compliance
• Monitoring financial sustainability and effective use of resources
• Holding senior leaders to account
• Approving key policies, budgets and strategic priorities
• Ensuring the Trust fulfils its legal and charitable responsibilities

The Trustees also delegate responsibilities through the Trust’s Scheme of Delegation, which clearly outlines the responsibilities held at Trust, local governance and school leadership level.

Role of the Headteacher

The Headteacher leads the strategic direction and day-to-day management of the school. Working alongside the Trust and Local Committee, they help ensure St Mary’s continues to provide a high-quality education where all children are supported to flourish.

Local Governance at St Mary’s

Each school within the Trust has a Local Committee which works closely with school leaders and the Trust Board. The responsibilities of the Local Committee are determined by the Scheme of Delegation.

At St Mary’s, governors provide strategic support and challenge to school leaders, helping to ensure the school continues to provide high-quality education and opportunities for all pupils.

The Local Committee contributes strategically by:

• Monitoring school improvement priorities and educational outcomes
• Reviewing safeguarding, attendance and wellbeing information
• Supporting the strategic development of the curriculum
• Reviewing provision for SEND and vulnerable pupils
• Monitoring the impact of leadership decisions
• Ensuring effective financial oversight and value for money
• Supporting the school’s Christian vision and distinctiveness
• Engaging with pupils, staff and leaders through monitoring activities and visits

As a Church of England school, the Local Committee also helps uphold and support the Christian character and vision of St Mary’s.

Scheme of Delegation

The Trust’s Scheme of Delegation provides clarity about the responsibilities held by Members, Trustees, Local Committees and school leaders. This ensures effective accountability and clear decision-making across the Trust.

Further information about the governance structure of Chess Valley Primary Learning Trust, including the Scheme of Delegation and Trustee information, can be found on the Trust website.