All school governors need to know what their legal responsibilities are and how these fit in with the responsibilities of the headteacher, the local authority (LA) and the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families. This Guide sets out the statutory requirements relating to governing body responsibilities. The explanatory text should be read alongside the Law and Guidance sections listed at the end of each chapter, and any information on governance provided by the local authority. In addition, there is a What�s new and updates document for this version of the guidance.