The Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools was formed in 2002 when two separate but collaborative bodies – the Governing Bodies Associations (historically boys’ schools) and The Governing Bodies of Girls’ Schools Association – merged to form a single, united organisation. These two predecessor organisations trace their history back to 1940 and 1942 respectively (the former having been founded as the Association of Governing Bodies of Public Schools exclusively admitting members representing boys’ Public Schools before its name was changed in 1944 and the association admitted members representing other independent schools).

AGBIS, as a single organisation, continues the work of these previous associations, facilitating and supporting the development of policy, procedures and strategic management best-practice for leading independent schools in the United Kingdom. The association offers advice, guidance and training to schools and their governing bodies in order to achieve these ends whilst also acting as a lobbying group and representative voice for its members and the sector more widely.

AGBIS is one of the member associations of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) and all AGBIS members are also members of that organisation. Only governors and governing bodies representing schools that are subject to inspection and oversight by the Independent Schools Inspectorate are eligible for membership of the body and, only then, if the heads of the respective schools remain in association with one of the heads’ membership bodies that are also members of the ISC (such as the HMC, GSA, IAPS, ISA, or SOH). Governors of schools that are members of the Scottish Council of Independent Schools, Welsh Independent Schools Council, or Council of British International Schools are eligible for associate membership.

The organisation has traditionally been comprised of secondary school governing bodies only but, as more of these schools acquire or establish preparatory schools, AGBIS has greatly expanded over the years to include many attached or fully independent preparatory schools.

Membership of the organisation may vary depending on the status of relevant school governors or headteachers but has been known to recently include those listed below. For the latest information, please visit AGBIS or get in touch with your preferred school.