What is governance?

Governance is how the board is controlled and run. The board develops a policy framework and processes for decision making, ensures compliance with legal requirements, and puts in place structures for the principal to effectively manage day to day operations.

A key document for the board is the strategic plan. The strategic plan is built around the Special Character foundation the school was established on and includes key features of the integration agreement. The board sets out in the strategic plan its vision, aims and the targets it intends to meet, and how it will
monitor and report on progress.

Through an effective self review programme the board monitors the performance of the school and principal against the plans, aims and targets set. It also ensures the Special Character reporting requirements to the Proprietor are met.

The Governance Framework – adapted and sourced from NZSTA

NZCEO have adapted the NZSTA governance framework to meet the needs of Catholic school boards.  Information about the framework and how it works can be found on the NZSTA website.

What do you need to know about the governance framework?

  • The policies are examples and can be altered to meet the needs of each school board and their community.  The sample policies are word documents that can be downloaded and amended as required. Your board can download some, or all, of these sample documents or create your own using the sample policies as a guide.
  • NZCEO have retained the sections within the NZSTA framework and maintained the same structure.  The governance framework is made up of four parts.  The policies in Parts B – D all follow the same format. Each policy has an outcome statement, scoping, expectations and limitations, and refers to relevant legislation. Some policies include key related school procedures, and the board’s monitoring and reporting expectations.
  • Catholic Special Character additions are highlighted in yellow. If the policy has been written solely by NZCEO (e.g. Catholic Special Character Policy) then only the title is highlighted.
  • Information about the NZSTA governance framework and how it works can be found on the NZSTA website

Sections of governance framework

Part A

Includes samples of some key board documents: board workplan (which, together with your annual plan, implements your board’s charter / strategic plan), board member register and delegations list. Part A is also where you will attach your board’s charter/strategic and annual plan. These are unique to your board and reflect your school community.

Part B

Contains sample governance policies. It includes: Catholic special character policy, board roles and responsibility, board code of conduct, presiding member role description, conflict of interest and principal performance management.

Part C

Contains sample policies that outline processes and procedures for your board. It includes: meeting protocols, meeting agenda and checklist, and meeting evaluation.

Part D

Has more detailed sample “operational” policies. It covers some critical areas of your school operations that your board needs more assurance about. Policies include: principal responsibilities, curriculum delivery, personnel and appointments, finance, health and safety, child protection, Catholic schools enrolment, and concerns and complaints.

For help and advice

Please visit the NZSTA website for more information about the policy framework and where to find more advice and support.

For support and advice please also contact your Education Manager within the Diocese.