School boards

By law, all ACT public schools are required to have a school board (Education Act 2004).

The school board is a formal way for parents, carers, students and the community to be involved in shaping the direction of the school.

It is responsible for strategic decisions and making sure a school is run well. It does not get involved in issues to do with managing a school, which is the school principal’s role.

Information is provided on this page to help board members meet their responsibilities, including the School Board Code of Conduct [DOCX 726 KB].

What a school board does

The law outlines the functions of a school board that are to be carried out as needed.

This includes to:

• help set strategic direction and priorities for the school
• monitor and review school performance
• review curriculum
• review and help implement policies
• approve the school budget
• develop relationships in the school community
• encourage parent participation in student learning
• make recommendations.

School board members work as one, in partnership with the school principal, to oversee the implementation of Directorate policies and programs to meet the school's needs.

How to get involved

School board members represent their sector of the school community, providing valuable insights and perspectives.

The school will invite nominations from the school community when board positions become available.

Parents, staff and students at the school (high school and college) may nominate for vacant positions. Sometimes, the school will extend the opportunity to members of the local community.

Details about the selection process and membership terms are in the School Board Handbook.

Contact your school's front office to learn more.

Appointed Member expression of interest

We are seeking expressions of interest to fill Appointed Member positions on multiple ACT public school boards.

We encourage people with diverse backgrounds, skills and experience to apply. You need to be interested in and committed to public education.

To express interest, email EDUschoolboards@act.gov.au and attach a completed Appointed Member Expression of Interest Form [DOCX 732 KB].

Guidance for school board members

Support is available to help school board members effectively contribute in their role.

Induction and training sessions are available to all school board members.

The School Board Handbook and factsheets provide principals, board members, assistant returning officers and business managers with guidance on school board matters.

This includes:

• selection and appointment of members
• board operations and key deliverables
• legislative requirements
• member roles and responsibilities
• ethics and conduct
• managing conflicts of interest
• training
• school board calendars
• process maps.

Resources for elections and appointments

Resources to help understand your role

Other resources for school boards

Contact us

For information about school board matters, contact the school’s principal.

If you need more help, contact our school boards team.