UK Governance and Participation Guides

Practical guides for governance, elections, and participation

Clear, plain-English answers to the questions UK schools, charities, trade unions and membership organisations actually ask us. Written by the team that has processed over one million votes.

Browse by sector

Schools and Trusts

Parent governor elections, school councils, staff surveys and governance compliance for maintained schools and MATs.

10 guides

Charities

Trustee elections, AGM voting, member consultations and governance best practice for charitable organisations.

Coming soon

Trade Unions

Industrial action ballots, executive elections, rule changes and statutory compliance for trade unions.

Coming soon

Membership Organisations

Board elections, member votes, AGM resolutions and participation strategies for membership bodies.

Coming soon
Parent Governor Elections

How do you run a parent governor election?

A complete step-by-step guide covering nominations, ballots, timelines and compliance requirements.

Reviewed April 2026 by Governance Lead
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Compliance and Ofsted

What documentation does Ofsted expect for parent voice?

The evidence inspectors look for and how to demonstrate meaningful parent engagement.

Reviewed April 2026 by Governance Lead
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Parent Governor Elections

Can a parent governor election be run online?

Legal requirements, practical benefits and implementation guidance for digital elections.

Reviewed April 2026 by Governance Lead
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The State of School Participation 2025-26

Our annual report analysing trends in parent engagement, governor elections and school governance across thousands of UK schools.

Read the report

Annual Report

2025-26

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