The Independent Schools Association (ISA) has partnered with All-in Education and the Minority Ethnic Governors Network (MEGN) to drive greater inclusion and diversity across school governing boards.
This partnership recognises that many independent school boards lack diversity, and this is a considerable factor holding schools back. With over 40% of pupils in independent schools from minority ethnic background (ISC, 2025), there is an irrefutable need for governing board membership to be reflective of the rich diversity of their pupil populations, especially as governance shapes school success, pupil outcomes and their everyday experiences.
Through this partnership, ISA will help our Members access practical tools, case studies, and guidance to attract governors from a wider range of backgrounds, reflecting the pupils and communities they serve.
The partnership will contribute to the forthcoming Inclusive Board Recruitment Guide, launching in 2026, which will provide practical steps for inclusive governor recruitment. ISA will also host member briefings and share examples of effective practice from schools across the sector.
At its core, the guidance emphasises talent and skills, helping schools recognise, reach and recruit individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds whose skills and perspectives strengthen governance.
By focusing on talent, wherever it exists, the guidance aims to bolster governance through diverse expertise, lived experience and insight that mirrors the pupils, staff and communities they serve.
Helen Stanton-Tonner, ISA Director of Education and Inclusion, said:
“Strong governance depends on diverse perspectives. By widening who we reach and how we recruit, schools can build boards that better reflect their pupils, strengthen decision-making and enrich school culture."
Johan Jensen, Director of All-in Education and Co-Founder of MEGN, said:
“This guidance is about unlocking talent and widening opportunity. Every school deserves a governing board that brings lived experience, cultural understanding and challenge to the table. Diversity in governance isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s what strengthens leadership and improves outcomes for pupils.”
Leah Morris, Co-Founder of MEGN and experienced governor, said:
“Too often, the same networks shape who becomes a governor. This work will be invaluable in helping schools look beyond those circles and reach people with the skills, insight and commitment that every board needs. Representation matters but so does the expertise that comes with it.”
This initiative forms part of the ongoing work of ISA, All-in Education and MEGN to promote inclusive leadership and ensure every school has the confidence, insight and diversity to thrive.