The Education, Skills and Employment (ESE) Portfolio is establishing a single governing board for the island’s three schools, as part of its preparations for a Council of British International Schools (COBIS) compliance visit in October 2026.
As part of preparations for COBIS standards implementation, work is underway to establish a governance framework that supports the long-term development of education on St Helena and reflects international best practice. A key element of this work is the creation of a single governing board for all three schools, providing strategic oversight, accountability and support for school improvement.
What is a Single Governing Board?
The proposed governing board will provide strategic oversight for all three schools, creating a shared approach to educational standards, safeguarding and school improvement. The board will not be responsible for the day-to-day operation of schools, which will remain the responsibility of school leaders. Instead, it will provide support, challenge and accountability to ensure that schools continue to improve and deliver the best possible outcomes for children and young people. Its members will include the Director of the ESE Portfolio, school
Headteachers, and co-opted members with expertise in education, governance and safeguarding, alongside parent and staff representatives. By bringing these perspectives together, the board will help ensure that decisions are informed by both professional expertise and the experiences of the wider school community.
Why is this Important?
The governing board will play a central role in supporting the schools’ COBIS accreditation journey. Strong governance is a key COBIS standard, and establishing a board that meets international expectations will help demonstrate the island’s commitment to providing high-quality education and effective safeguarding arrangements.
A Phased Approach to Establishment
The governing board will be established in two phases. The first phase will involve the appointment of a co-opted governing board, bringing together individuals with specialist skills and experience in areas such as governance, education and safeguarding. The second phase will introduce elected parents, staff and additional specialist governors.
Governance Arrangements During the Transition
Throughout the transition, the board will work alongside the existing Portfolio Advisory Board (PAB), which will continue to oversee and support education policy and strategic priorities. At the same time, work is underway to review the Education Ordinance to determine what legislative changes may be required to support the long-term operation of the governing board. More information regarding public meetings for community input on the Education Ordinance will be communicated in due course.
Expressions of Interest
If you would like to express your interest in being a Co-opted Governor, please complete the linked google form by 2 August 2026. Further information about the requirements to be a co-opted governor, including passing the vetting process, can be found on the form or on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/documents/20260623-Co-Opted-Leaflet.docx.pdf.
Looking Ahead
Over the coming months, further information will be shared regarding appointments and opportunities for parents, staff and community members to become involved in the governance process.
The ESE Portfolio would like to thank school leaders, staff, parents and the wider community for their continued support and engagement as this work progresses. By working together, the island can continue to build a strong and sustainable education system that provides the best possible opportunities for all children and young people on St Helena.
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