Sometimes - perhaps often - there is almost no interaction between internal and independent governors between board meetings, but on occasions staff or student governors may feel they need to contact independent members. Should they, and if so in what circumstances? In general, the answer is no, unless the interaction stems naturally from governing body business, for example following up issues of mutual interest. Where such contact does occur, it might be wise to keep the clerk or secretary of the board in touch with what is being done.
The most usual example of staff or student members seeking to contact independent governors is where they wish to lobby on particular issues. Overall, such an activity is unwise, although there may be isolated occasions when it is appropriate for governors to talk to each other about key issues before meetings.
Informal interaction is another matter, and institutions increasing adopt a number of ways to try and enhance communication between all board members. In order to avoid a 'them and us' approach some institutions ensure contact between independent and internal governors in various ways, for example, student union or departmental visits, joint attendance at events, 'awaydays', mentoring, and so on. Such activities are usually organised through the clerk or secretary.