NGA reinforces commitment to EDI in sector-led statement

Demonstrating a commitment to tackling issues related to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in education, a range of national associations and other sector bodies have today (10 June) published a Statement of Intent. The National Governance Association (NGA) is pleased to have made a contribution.

The statement includes commitments to action from each signatory organisation on how they are going to progress their work over the coming year, as well as reporting what they have done to date.

NGA’s commitments include:

Publishing a state of the nation report (on 29 June) on increasing participation in school and trust governance focusing on the experiences of governors and trustees from a Black, Asian or minority ethnic background and of young volunteers, including recommendations for boards and the sector;
Updating our practical guidance on recruiting governors and trustees to thread through a focus on recruiting diverse volunteers and creating an inclusive culture;
Continuing to support governors, trustees and governance professionals in understanding EDI and its effects, through our Knowledge Centre, magazine and events.

Signatories will hold each other to account for delivering on the aims set out and invite their respective members and stakeholders to hold them to account. The statement intends to give confidence to pupils and families, staff and leaders and those governing that the organisations involved are learning, listening and acting on their concerns and that together ambitions for equality, diversity and inclusion can be achieved.

Emma Knights, chief executive of the National Governance Association said:
“It is important that this level of co-operation and sharing of knowledge and expertise is happening at national level, and that those leading schools across the country are aware that we are working together and are committed to making a difference. Governing boards have an important role in ensuring a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion in their schools and trusts. Through the decisions they make and the scrutiny and support they give, they can drive significant progress and impact for leaders, staff and pupils. NGA will continue to act in creating the expectation and resources for boards to develop in their composition and culture and in their role of encouraging diversity and ensuring equality throughout their organisation.”

Read the Statement of Intent

The organisations co-signatory to this statement to date are: