The role played by governors on academic matters varies considerably between institutions, and also depends upon particular issues. However, in practice, all governing bodies have several concerns in relation to academic matters:
In Scotland, from 2009 governing bodies are required to approve learning and teaching strategies, although this is not formally required in the rest of the UK. In post-1992 institutions this is the basis of the formal requirement to determine educational character.It is explicitly not the responsibility of the governing body or individual governors to become involved in any way, in matters of solely academic judgement, in particular the content of courses or research, assessment, and related areas.
In most institutions the primary concern of the governing body is to be assured that effective processes for dealing with academic issues are in place and working well. Indeed, in England, Annex 1 to the Financial Memorandum between HEFCE and institutions requires governing bodies to 'ensure that there is an effective framework - overseen by the academic board - to manage the quality of learning and teaching and to maintain academic standards.'
Further information can be found in Chapter 2 of Getting to Grips with Academic Standards, Quality and the Student Experience.
Powerpoint presentations:
How can Governors ensure a Supporting and High Quality Learning Environment? Professor Craig Mahoney, Chief Executive, Higher Education Academy
Engaging Governors in the Academic Agenda, Jon Baldwin, Registrar, University of Warwick