School governor conduct and the Nolan principles

It's important that any school governor, upon entering their role is aware of both the conduct expected of them, and the 7 Nolan Principles.

Code of conduct of school governors

Most boards set out their expectations for behaviour, relationships and performing the role in a code of conduct. New school governors are usually asked to agree to the code of conduct when joining the board. Having a code of conduct unites the board around a single set of expectations. It helps provide clarity should any problems arise around conduct.

As elected individuals, school governors are expected to be aware of, and accept the ‘7 principles of public life’ also known as the Nolan Principles.

Legislation governing conduct

Under legislation, maintained school governors are required to exercise their functions with:

  • Integrity
  • Objectivity
  • Honesty

They need to:

  • Act in the best interests of the school
  • Be open about the decisions they make
  • Be prepared to explain their decisions and actions to interested parties

The ‘Nolan principles’

The ‘7 principles of public life’, also known as the Nolan principles, apply to anyone who has been elected to appointed to a public office. School governors should be aware of and accept the principles. They are set out below:

  1. Selflessness: Firstly, holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest.
  2. Integrity: Secondly, holders of public office must avoid placing themselves under any obligation to people or organisations that might try inappropriately to influence them in their work. They should not act or take decisions in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends. They must declare and resolve any interests and relationships.
  3. Objectivity: Thirdly, holders of public office must act and take decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias.
  4. Accountability: Holders of public office must also act and take decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias.
  5. Openness: Additionally, Holders of public office should act and take decisions in an open and transparent manner. Information should not be withheld from the public unless there are clear and lawful reasons for so doing.
  6. Honesty: Furthermore, holders of public office should be truthful when conducting their duties.
  7. Leadership: Finally, holders of public office should exhibit these principles in their own behaviour. They should actively promote and robustly support the principles and be willing to challenge poor behaviour wherever it occurs.