GOVERNANCE
SUPPORT

Strengthening oversight, scrutiny and accountability across funded provision

Effective governance is no longer optional for funded providers. Under the new Ofsted inspection framework, governance and external scrutiny are central to how provision is evaluated.

Whether you deliver Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps or Adult Education, inspectors expect to see governance operating effectively in practice, providing challenge, oversight and accountability across your organisation.

For many new providers, particularly those entering their first funding contract or preparing for a first Monitoring Visit, governance arrangements are still developing. Getting this right early protects your provision and builds confidence under scrutiny.

Why governance matters

Strong governance ensures that providers:

Operate legally, ethically and in line with DfE and Ofsted requirements

Use public funding responsibly and transparently

Maintain high-quality teaching, learning and assessment

Safeguard learners and support SEND effectively

Hold leaders to account and provide strategic direction

Identify and manage risk proactively

Build sustainable and credible provision

Governance is not simply a compliance function. It is a visible indicator of leadership strength and organisational maturity.

How we support governance

Skills Office Network provides practical governance support and independent scrutiny across key areas of funded delivery.

Our support includes:

Oversight of the DfE Accountability Framework and audit readiness

Safeguarding and SEND governance assurance

Quality assurance systems, learner voice and impact evaluation

Financial oversight, funding assurance and risk management

Operational and regulatory compliance review

Preparation for Ofsted Monitoring Visits and full inspections

We work alongside boards, trustees, senior leaders and quality teams to strengthen governance structures, clarify reporting lines and ensure effective challenge is embedded.