In collaboration with the National Governors Association (NGA), the NAO has updated its guidance Improving school performance: A guide for school governors. The guide was first published in May 2006 alongside the DCSF�s value for money report on poorly performing schools. It is intended to help both new and experienced primary and secondary school governors, as well as school leaders, identify and tackle the issues important to their schools� organisation and performance.

The updated guide has received Plain English Campaign's Crystal Mark for clarity and provides up-to-date information, including findings from the NAO's more recent work on education topics; of relevance to governors and school leaders. This work includes reports on primary mathematics performance, the 14 to 19 curriculum, financial management in the schools sector, and the national school building and refurbishment programme.  The guide also includes new information to help schools work more closely with other schools, the local community and universities. 

The guide is divided into 13 themes. Each theme sets out: important questions for governing bodies; facts and figures that give an insight into what�s happening across the country; and sources of further information and good practice.

Download a copy of the guidance from NAO 's website, linked below.