Agenda Item 42 - Legally Independent with Kenji Batchelor | #TheGovernorsPodcast

For today's Single Item Agenda to close the summer term of 23/24, we are joined by guest speaker;

• Kenji Batchelor, an Education Law Partner in Bristol, specialises in advising independent and special schools on legal issues, governance, and strategic projects, with over 14 years of board experience.

By listening to this episode, you will:-

• Understand the Governance of Independent Schools: Explore the structure and responsibilities of governance in independent schools, the common misconceptions about these institutions, and the role of charity trustees in steering the strategic direction of the school.
• Learn About the Role of Legal Firms in School Governance: Discover how legal advisors support school boards, the importance of early legal consultation, and the dynamics between governance professionals and legal representatives in managing rising complaints and ensuring compliance.
• Compare International and UK School Governance: Delve into the unique challenges and benefits of governing international schools in the UK, including maintaining cultural integrity while adhering to English governance structures, and the importance of training and understanding legal frameworks.
• Navigate the Role of a Legal Expert in School Governance: Gain insights on how legal professionals balance their expertise with collective decision-making responsibilities on school boards, understanding boundaries, and the importance of diverse skills among governors.
• Explore Strategic Considerations for School Mergers and Acquisitions: Learn about the legal and strategic factors involved in mergers within the independent school sector, the impact of government policies, and the benefits and challenges of consolidation for smaller schools facing financial pressures.

Connect with Kenji and/or visit VWV’s website to access free resources: https://www.vwv.co.uk/ 

Thank you for tuning into our show. We appreciate you, our listeners. Please rate, review and subscribe to our podcast.

National Association of Schools and College Clerks (NASCC) 

National Black Governors Network (NBGN) 

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YOUR HOSTS:

Sharon Warmington (School Governor; Qualified Corporate Governance Practitioner) 

Olivia D Hinds (Member of the Joint Advisory Education and Safeguarding Group of a MAT; LGB Committee Chair for Education and Welfare)

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The Governors' Podcast (TGP) is a brand of Education Governance Solutions Limited 

TGP is sponsored by GovernorHub/Knowledge, creators of The Hoot

Current release schedule: Term time Wednesdays @ 7am (approx. 1-2 per month).

TGP defines its 'Seasons' by UK academic years (September to July) and episodes are called ‘Agenda Items’.

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Theme Music - Hertz Beats, UK Producer