The role of a school governor has never been more dynamic or more vital. Education is evolving rapidly, and the decisions governors make today shape the opportunities children will have tomorrow. From changes in inspection frameworks to the impact of smartphones, from reforms in post-16 pathways to the rise of AI in classrooms—staying informed is essential to ensure that schools remain compliant, forward-thinking, and inclusive.
Below we highlight the key developments governors need to know about, with practical actions you can take to support your school leadership team.
Early Years Inspection: Ofsted’s Major Reforms
What’s changing:
Ofsted has announced significant reforms to the Early Years inspection framework, with greater focus on curriculum quality, staff development, and safeguarding practices. This has direct implications for schools with EYFS provision.
Key message: Governors should be actively supporting leaders to prepare, ensuring compliance and high-quality provision for the youngest learners.
Actions for governors:
- Request a briefing from the EYFS lead on alignment with the new framework.
- Monitor training opportunities for EYFS staff and check resources are adequate.
- Review safeguarding updates specific to early years.
Smartphone Harms: Protecting Pupils from Digital Risks
What’s changing:
A major study has found that pupils already struggling in education are disproportionately exposed to harmful smartphone content. This highlights concerns about online safety, wellbeing, and the digital divide.
Key message: Governors must ensure schools are building digital resilience and safeguarding the pupils most at risk.
Actions for governors:
- Scrutinise the school’s digital safety policy and its real-world delivery.
- Ask leaders how digital harms are addressed in RSHE and staff safeguarding training.
- Encourage parental engagement on safe smartphone use at home.
Post-16 Education: Preparing for Major Reforms
What’s changing:
The Prime Minister has unveiled reforms to better align FE and HE pathways with labour market needs. This means greater emphasis on employability, skills, and progression routes.
Key message: Schools need to ensure pupils are well-informed about their post-16 options, with careers education that reflects real employment opportunities.
Actions for governors:
- Ensure careers guidance is robust, impartial, and regularly reviewed.
- Monitor how effectively the school tracks student destinations post-16.
- Encourage partnerships with local employers and FE/HE providers.
Literacy in the Age of AI
What’s changing:
AI is transforming education. Used well, it can deepen learning and support literacy, but it also raises new challenges. Our latest podcast explores practical ways AI can enhance teaching, alongside a list of top AI tools for schools.
Key message: Governors should understand how AI is being used in education, and challenge leaders to ensure it supports rather than undermines literacy and critical thinking.
Key message: Staying up to date with sector resources enables governors to hold leaders to account and ensure schools meet statutory duties.
AI in Education – What Governors Need to Know
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is no longer a futuristic concept it’s here, and it’s already influencing education. From lesson planning support to automating administrative tasks, AI has the potential to change the way schools work.
But while the opportunities are exciting, AI also raises crucial questions around training, safeguarding, and digital safety. As governors, it’s our responsibility to stay informed and to provide effective oversight.
Why AI Matters for Schools
AI can:
- Support teaching and learning through tailored resources.
- Streamline administration, giving staff more time for students.
- Help identify patterns in data, supporting school improvement.
However, these benefits only come when AI is used responsibly and with staff fully supported.
Key Questions for Governors
- How are AI tools being introduced in your school?
AI should not be added piecemeal. Governors should ask leaders about the strategy, the evidence base, and how tools align with the school’s values. - What training is offered to staff at all levels?
For AI to be effective, staff need practical, accessible training not just on how to use tools, but also on how to maintain professional judgement and safeguard pupils’ interests. - Why must AI use be covered in safeguarding and digital safety training?
AI brings new risks: data privacy, algorithm bias, and inappropriate content generation. Embedding AI into safeguarding discussions ensures governors can be confident pupils are kept safe.
Using AI Wisely
AI should be seen as a tool to support your work, not to do it for you. Teachers and leaders must remain at the centre of decision-making. AI can make processes more efficient, but professional expertise, empathy, and human judgement remain irreplaceable.
Actions for Governors
- Listen to the podcast and video and share your reflections at the next governing board meeting.
- Ask leaders how AI is being introduced and what training staff have had.
- Ensure AI use is explicitly included in safeguarding and digital safety policies and reviews.
Final Thought
AI is here to stay. By asking the right questions and embedding AI into strategic discussions, governors can help schools harness its benefits while protecting pupils and staff.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay ahead.
Effective governance means being proactive, informed, and connected. By keeping pace with educational reforms and challenges, governors can provide the critical oversight and support schools need to thrive.
Next Step for Governors: Share this update with your governing body and discuss one action you can prioritise before the next full board meeting.