Agenda item

Report of the Principal of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Governors considered a report of the Principal of the Guildhall School providing assurances to the Board in respect of the School’s responsibility to promote equality and diversity, and the Board’s responsibility to monitor progress in respect of the continuous improvement of the student academic experience and student outcomes..

·         In response to a comment from a Governor regarding the diversity of the Board, the Principal replied that the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) would like to see 40% of women on Boards such as that for the Guildhall School.  The Chairman added that diversity on the Court of Common Council had improved since 2013 but overall diversity was dependent upon people putting themselves forward for election.  The Deputy Chairman noted she had discussed this issue with women on the Common Council and would continue to try to encourage them to stand for election to City Committees.

·         Governors noted that the City of London Corporation had a Governor Development Plan in place which was available to both new and long standing City of London Governors.

·         A Governor suggested inviting wider City of London Governors to events at the School to improve awareness of the School’s activities and promote the School more widely within the City of London Corporation.  

·         A Governor spoke about monitoring the characterisation of the Board. Town Clerk to prepare a report on this.

·         The Principal noted that as far as was possible when appointing to the Board, consideration should be given to the wider Board’s skill set and any areas where additional skills would be beneficial. Any women appointed to the Board would be appointed on the basis of their skills and experience, and potential contribution to the work of the Board.

·         In concluding discussion on the diversity of the Board, Governors requested that the Town Clerk bring a report to a future meeting regarding the Board’s diversity and skills.

·         In response to a comment from a Governor regarding the promotion of female actors across the acting industry, the Principal replied that those conversations were already being had within the School.

RECEIVED