School Governors' One Stop Shop and the Federation of Small Business.

The School Governors’ One-Stop Shop and the Federation of Small Businesses have been working in partnership since 2002.  The relationship has grown stronger every year, with SGOSS now a regular feature at the FSB conference and a significant number of volunteers from SMEs now serving on Governing Bodies.

In November 2008, SGOSS and the FSB signed a Memorandum of Understanding where both organisations pledged to do their utmost to spread the governance message and recruit suitable volunteers in the parts of the country most in need.

FSB Chairman John Wright and SGOSS Chief Executive Steve Acklam signed the joint Memorandum of Understanding at the FSB London Office.

- John Wright, FSB National Chair, said:

"The Federation of Small Businesses would like to see more small business owners becoming school governors and helping to encourage more young people, the entrepreneurs of the future, to realise that working for a large business is not the only option, and to consider starting their own business. We feel the SGOSS will help many employers participate in this tremendously worthwhile role."

- Steve Acklam, SGOSS Chief Executive, said:

"The schools of today have become increasingly autonomous, with budget allocations, strategic planning and senior appointments all within the remit of the Governing Body. In this environment, the skills and experiences of small business owners and employees can be invaluable. The School Governors' One-Stop Shop is delighted to be working in partnership with the Federation of Small Business to bring more of their members into the largest group of volunteers in the country".