Governor Development Evenings at Lydiate Learning Trust

At Lydiate Learning Trust (LLT), we recognise that effective governance is critical to delivering exceptional education in our primary and secondary schools. Since 2017, our Governor Development Evenings have been central to that mission. These events – now a permanent fixture on the governance calendar – bring together Governors, Directors (Trustees), and Academy Senior Leaders from across the Trust to strengthen governance, share best practice, and develop skills that directly benefit our children’s education.

Each Governor Development Evening runs for three hours and includes a mix of presentations, interactive workshops, and focused discussions. Topics are carefully selected to reflect the needs of our primary and secondary schools, ensuring that every Governor and Director – from those supporting teacher training and curriculum to those shaping financial oversight and strategic direction – can engage fully and take away clear, practical insights.
We understand that our Governors and Directors often volunteer alongside busy professional lives. That’s why we create an environment where everyone can participate and give their best – with comfortable meeting rooms, refreshments, and a supportive, collaborative atmosphere.

Governance in primary and secondary education is more than just oversight – it’s about ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life. Our Governor Development Evenings support this by equipping Governors and Directors with the latest insights and strategies to lead effectively.
At LLT, we set high expectations through our Induction and Code of Conduct. These evenings reinforce that commitment, helping Governors and Directors build the knowledge and confidence they need to govern well – whether they’re involved in shaping teacher training programmes, supporting classroom teaching, or setting strategic goals.

The CEO and Senior Governance Professional work tirelessly to ensure our content is up to date and relevant. They draw on national and local sources – including the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), Department for Education (DfE), National Governance Association (NGA), and Governor Hub – to keep our events aligned with best practice and emerging priorities.

Our Executive Team and Chairs of the Board and Academy Governance Committees also help shape the agendas, which include clear aims and outcomes for all participants. We know that the needs of a primary school governor can differ from those working in a secondary setting or focused on teacher training, so sessions are tailored wherever possible to ensure everyone gets the most value.

Governors and Directors tell us they value the evenings not just for the information, but for the chance to connect, share experiences, and see the bigger picture. Many say the evenings boost their confidence – particularly for those new to governance – and help them feel more connected to the Trust and its mission to deliver excellent primary and secondary education.

Governor Development Evenings are about more than compliance – they’re about ensuring that every member of our governance community is equipped and inspired to lead. For LLT, these evenings are a key investment in the people who shape our schools and support teacher training and development – and ultimately in the success of every pupil we serve.

If you’d like to find out more about how to get involved in governance at LLT, or how these evenings support our primary and secondary schools and teacher training initiatives, please get in touch with our Governance Team – Deborah Moss, Senior Governance Professional, Lydiate Learning Trust via d.moss@lydiatelearning.org