EA Launches New Governor Networks for Chairpersons of Controlled Schools

The first three Governor Networks took place on 24, 25 and 26 February 2026, bringing together Chairs of Controlled schools across three localities. Sessions were hosted at Omagh Teachers’ Centre (Locality South West), Magilligan Field Centre (Locality North), and Finaghy Youth Centre (Locality East).

These inaugural events provided Chairpersons with the opportunity to connect with EA School Governance colleagues, share experiences, and engage in focused discussions around effective governance. The Networks also enabled Chairs to build relationships with peers from other Controlled schools within their locality.

In response to feedback from governors and principals, the first round of Networks centred on the EA Scheme of Management for Controlled schools. Chairpersons explored how the Scheme supports effective governance and discussed its application within a school context. All three sessions were highly interactive, well‑received, and filled with lively discussion—creating a real buzz in each venue.

EA’s School Governance Service has expressed its appreciation to all Chairs who participated in the launch events, acknowledging their commitment to strengthening governance across the Controlled sector.

Looking ahead, the School Governance Service intends to deliver further Governor Networks for Chairpersons across all three localities on a regular basis, with an emphasis on building strong face‑to‑face connections and providing meaningful opportunities for shared learning.

The Networks focusing on the Scheme of Management will be repeated in May 2026, with additional sessions covering other aspects of effective governance planned throughout the 2026/27 year.