AISNSW partners with the AICD on school governance

The Association of Independent Schools of NSW (AISNSW) and the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) have entered into an agreement to provide expert governance training to over 250 NSW Independent school board members.

AISNSW Chief Executive Geoff Newcombe AM said good governance was central to maintaining confidence and trust in a sector that was growing rapidly.

“Independent schools have accounted for almost three-quarters of net new enrolments in all sectors in NSW since 2018,” Dr Newcombe said.

“With this growth comes a responsibility on school boards to ensure good oversight of their schools and to ensure they operate for the benefit of their students.

“The AICD is an excellent partner to work with to help deliver these outcomes, given its exceptional reputation for delivering quality governance courses and programs.”

The AICD will deliver courses for board members and also a specific AICD course addressing the unique role of the school chair and their additional responsibilities as leader of the school board.

AICD Managing Director and CEO, Angus Armour, said AICD was pleased to partner with AISNSW to advance the governance knowledge of hundreds of Independent school directors in NSW.

“The role of schools in society continues to change. Schools are challenged with increased social expectations and tighter regulatory requirements, as well as greater scrutiny.

“This environment elevates the responsibilities and governance expectations of school boards and consequently, the role of a school director is becoming more complex. It is more important than ever that we help these directors invest in the skills necessary to grapple with these challenges.”

Dr Newcombe said both courses will accredit hours to satisfy the NSW Education Standards Authority requirement for professional learning in school governance.

“The AICD agreement has been structured to provide subsidised access to both courses for all AISNSW member schools.

“This unique partnership will make a significant contribution to the development of school board members and will promote accountability and good governance, which benefits all students.”

Independent schools are the largest provider of school education in NSW outside of government, educating 221,744 students in 504 schools and campuses.

With a membership of more than 48,000, the AICD is committed to strengthening society through world-class governance.

Media contacts

AICD: Maegen Sykes 0439 167 567                              
AISNSW: Jim Hanna 0414 828 629