Can we have a joint chair of governors?

Yes. More than one governor or trustee can share the role and act as joint chairs or joint vice-chairs, although academies will need to check whether this is permitted by their articles of association.

The DfE advise that schools and academies can have either a joint chair of governors/trustees or a joint vice-chair if this is in the best interests of the school.

“The governing body must have a chair or co-chairs, supported by one or more vice-chairs, to lead and set the culture of the governing body.”

DfE Maintained Schools Governance Guide

“The chair can be a shared role. A vice chair can be a shared role.”

DfE Academy Trust Governance Guide

How many governors can share the role of chair?

The National Governance Association (NGA) recommends in its advice on co-chairing (viewable by NGA members only) that no more than two governors share the role.