We continue to work with Sandwell schools to build and support their music offer. It is our goal
to encourage every school in Sandwell to work with us, so that there is an equity of opportunity
for children to learn a musical instrument during their time at school.

We’re pleased to unveil our latest Governance Training Sessions – for further information or to enrol, please contact Lara Angell, Assistant Governance Manager Lara.Angell@sips.co.uk

Governance for Special Schools and Specialist Settings

26th February 2025 5.30pm -7.00pm – MS Teams

Facilitated by Prof (Dr) Adam Boddison OBE

This session is specifically aimed at Governors or Trustees of special schools or other specialist settings. Governors of schools where there is an above average level of volume or complexity of SEND may also find this session useful. In addition to the standard expectations of school governance, there are some aspects of governance that are particularly relevant to special schools. This includes receiving assurance about health provision and the readiness of staff as a whole to respond to a range of complex needs. The session will consider what inclusion means in a specialist setting as well as exploring strategic challenges such as high levels of agency staff and funding arrangements. Suggested cycles for standard meeting items will be shared, so that attendees can immediately put their learning into practice.

Governors’ Role – Dealing with Complaints

11th March 2025 10.00am -11.30am – MS Teams

Facilitated by Lara Angell Assistant Governance Manager

This session will provide governors with an overview of the DfE’s and ESFA’s recommended best practice guidance and non-statutory model policies.

  • Understanding the requirements in maintained schools, academies and independent schools
  • Defining the difference between a concern and a complaint and understanding who can make a complaint
  • Exploring the role of the governing board
  • Recognising complaints that fall outside of the scope of a complaints policy
  • Dealing with persistent or vexatious complaints

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