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    Goverance

    Learn how ABSLEP is run and how members can get involved.

    Understand how ABSLEP operates as a registered charity, including its governance structure, trustee roles, and decision-making processes. Learn how members can actively contribute, participate in meetings, propose motions, vote in elections, and help shape the future of BSL teaching in the UK.

    About ABSLEP

    Formed in 1989, the Association of British Sign Language Education Professionals (ABSLEP) has supported BSL educators for over three decades. In 2023, ABSLTA officially became a registered charity, marking a new chapter in its commitment to professionalism, inclusion, and excellence in BSL teaching and assessment.

    Our governance ensures transparency, accountability, and collaboration — values that remain central to everything we do. We operate under our Constitution and in line with Charity Commission guidance, ensuring all decisions serve the best interests of our members and the wider BSL community.

    Constitution

    The Constitution is the foundational document that governs ABSLEP. It:

    • Sets out the charity’s objectives and rules of operation.

    • Defines members’ rights and trustees’ responsibilities.

    • Guides decision-making processes, including motions, votes, and AGM procedures.

    • Ensures ABSLEP operates in compliance with charity law and best governance practices.

    Understanding the Constitution helps members know how the charity functions, their role in decision-making, and how ABSLEP maintains accountability and transparency.

    Annual General Meeting (AGM)

    7The AGM is one of the most important events in the ABSLTA calendar. It gives members the opportunity to:

    • Review progress and achievements from the past year.

    • Hear updates from trustees and officers.

    • Approve key decisions, including motions and future plans.

    • Ask questions and share feedback directly with the leadership team.

    Next AGM:
    Date: June 2027
    Format: Hybrid (in person and online)
    Schedule:

    • 9:00 AM – Video recap of our work

    • 2:00 PM – Summary and Q&A session

    More details, including the full agenda, trustee reports, and motions, will be shared closer to the event.

    Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM)

    An EGM is a special meeting called to address urgent or important matters that cannot wait until the AGM.

    Key Points:

    • Can be called by the Board of Trustees or by a specified number of members (as defined in the Constitution).

    • Focuses on specific issues, such as changes to the Constitution, urgent policy decisions, or major financial matters.

    • Members are notified in advance and may vote in person, online, or by proxy.

    • Decisions made at an EGM are binding, just like at the AGM.

    Governance and Trustees

    ABSLTA is governed by a Board of Trustees who oversee the charity’s strategic direction and ensure compliance with all legal, financial, and ethical responsibilities.

    Trustee Roles Include:

    • Chair

    • Secretary

    • Treasurer

    • Elected trustees

    Together, they maintain good governance, financial stability, and a strong focus on supporting BSL educators across the UK.

    Trustee Elections

    ABSLTA members play an important role in electing trustees, ensuring continuity and effective leadership.

    Key Information:

    • Departing Trustees: [Insert names/roles of trustees completing their term].

    • Trustees Due to Step Up: Stuart Parkinson, Secretary and Hamza Shaki, Elected Trustee.

    • Election Process: Members vote at the AGM or via proxy if unable to attend. Results are announced at the conclusion of the AGM.

    • Term of Service: Trustees typically serve for [insert number] years. Re-election is possible under the Constitution.

    This ensures smooth leadership transitions and allows members to actively shape ABSLTA’s future.

    How to Submit a Motion

    Mentoring Programme

    You don’t have to do this alone. Our mentoring scheme pairs new teachers with experienced ones. Whether you need a sounding board or practical help planning a session, we’re here for you.

    CPD for Beginners

    New to classroom delivery? Try our starter CPD sessions covering:

    • Planning your first BSL course
    • Managing visual attention
    • Using technology in BSL teaching
    • Feedback and reflective practice

    Teaching BSL as a Second Language

    Learn how to adapt your approach for learners who are hearing, Deaf, have additional needs, or are coming to BSL for personal, professional, or cultural reasons.

    How to Submit a Motion

    Members can propose motions for discussion and decision at the AGM.

    Steps to Submit a Motion:

    1. Only current members may submit motions.

    2. Clearly state the proposal and intended outcome.

    3. Include supporting information.

    4. Submit by [insert deadline] via [email protected].

    5. Receive confirmation from ABSLTA.

    At the AGM, motions are discussed, possibly amended, and voted on. They are either passed or not passed.

    Understanding AGM Terms

    • Agenda – List of items to be discussed at the meeting.

    • Minutes – Written record of discussions and decisions.

    • Motion – Formal proposal for discussion and decision.

    • Passed – Approved by a majority vote.

    • Resolution – Final decision following a motion.

    • Conclusion – Summary or closing of a discussion.

    • Term of Service – Duration a trustee or officer serves before re-election.

    • Charity Commission Report – Annual report submitted to the Charity Commission.

    • Subcommittee – Smaller group focusing on a specific area.

    • Working Group – Task-based group for a project.

    • Chair – Person leading the meeting.

    • Quorum – Minimum members required for valid decisions.

    • Proxy Vote – Authorising someone else to vote on your behalf.

    • Constitution – Foundational document that sets ABSLTA’s rules, objectives, governance, and members’ rights

    Still Have Questions?

    We’re here to help.

    Contact us at [email protected] or speak to one of our trustee members.

    You belong here, and we’re excited to be part of your teaching journey.