The Governor Link Scheme

The purpose of the scheme is to provide a framework in which communication between staff, students and board members can be facilitated by ‘linking' members to Centres and Departments of Colchester Institute. The meetings through the scheme provide an opportunity for board members to gain a better understanding of the work of the College and the key issues and developments for the staff and students. This gives members additional background to inform their strategic planning and determination of the educational character and mission of Colchester Institute.

It is very important that the link scheme is not seen by staff and students as an opening to lobby members. Individual governors should try as far as possible not to be drawn into debates which are the concern of management.  The scheme is not a substitute to established and recognised management lines of communication. 

An important aspect of the scheme is the feedback from visits by other board members. This is achieved by members, either individually or collectively where more than one member has been involved in a visit or series of visits, writing a report to the Principal, covering the main issues raised and the member's own thoughts on the visit. The Principal, after discussing the report with the appropriate Director of Learning will give a written response including his comments on any management issues raised in the report.  The Principal's reply, together with the report, is then considered by the Quality and Standards Committee. During the year the Directors of Learning report to the Quality and Standards Committee on the follow up action.