The core functions of governance differ slightly between maintained schools and academy trust governing boards in England.
Maintained school governing boards must ensure:
That the vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school are clearly defined. That the headteacher performs their responsibilities for the educational performance of the school. The sound, proper and effective use of the school’s financial resources.
DfE Maintained Schools governance guidance
Academy trust governing boards must ensure:
Strategic leadership of the academy trust: the board defines the trust vision for high quality and inclusive education in line with its charitable objects. It establishes and fosters the trust’s culture and sets and champions the trust strategy including determining what, if any, governance functions are delegated to the local tier
Accountability and assurance: the board has robust effective oversight of the operations and performance of the academy trust, including the provision of education, pupil welfare, overseeing and ensuring appropriate use of funding and effective financial performance and keeping their estate safe and well-maintained.
Engagement: the board has strategic oversight of relationships with stakeholders. The board involves parents, schools and communities so that decision-making is supported by meaningful engagement.
DfE Academy Trust governance guide