Devon Association of GovernanceDevon Association of Governance

DAG Conference 4th November 2023

Devon Association of Governance Conference – Saturday 4th November 2023. Exeter Racecourse

‘Making an impact through effective governance’

As volunteers we all want to make a difference. Our free Saturday morning conference was a rare opportunity for governors, trustees, clerks and governance professionals to come together to hear from inspirational speakers on key educational themes and network with governance peers.

Programme

How Governance Can Make a Real Impact

Have you ever wondered whether your board is having an impact on the quality of the education of the children in your school or academy?

Michael BartonNGA Regional Governance Development Lead lead a session on how governance can make a real impact.

Michael specialises in trust governance, co-ordinating NGA’s work with multi-academy trusts and producing tailored resources. He has authored a series of reports, on topics including the pupil premium and central leadership structures in MATs. He also leads NGA’s work in the West Midlands, working closely with the region’s trusts and local authorities, and will be taking on responsibility for the South West after Christmas.

Presentation

‘The Power of Localism in a School Trust

Is your board considering the benefits of joining a multi academy trust or merging with another trust? Are you wondering how governance could be improved in your trust? Samira Sadeghi is Director of Trust Governance at Confederation of School Trusts, a national sector body representing trusts across England. Samira has been involved in school governance for over a decade. Prior to joining CST, she served as Head of Governance and Company Secretary at Academies Enterprise Trust, a trust with 57 schools. She started her career in governance with Ark Schools, as a Regional Governance Officer. Before she moved to the U.K. with her family in 2010, Samira was a criminal defence attorney in California representing men on death row on their habeas corpus petitions for almost 12 years.

Presentation

Be More Lyndon: How key worker (Lyndon) changed Ashley’s life

Ashley John Baptiste award winning broadcaster, journalist and a truly inspirational speaker talked about influencing young lives for the better. He shared his story of growing up in care and how the intervention of a caring adult can positively shape a life. Ashley’s bio

DCC’s Vision for the Future of Education in Devon 

This was a chance to meet and hear from Donna Manson who became the CEO of Devon County Council in February 2023.  A former Director of Children’s Services and Headteacher her top priority for Devon is to deliver significant improvement to Devon’s Children’s Services.

Presentation