Governors and Trustees are guided by the Nolan Principles. Lord Nolan's Seven Principles of Public Life  apply to anyone who holds a public office, including those in the education sector. 

1. Selflessness
Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest.They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family or friends. 

2. Integrity
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligations to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in performance of their official duties. 

3. Objectivity
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit. 

4. Accountability
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands. 

5. Openness
Holders of public office should act and take decisions in an open and transparent manner. Information should not be withheld from the public unless there are clear and lawful reasons for so doing.

6. Honesty
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest. 

7. Leadership
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.