Syllabus

• Week 1

  What is Governance?

  • Welcome & Introduction

    Welcome to the IoD Boardroom Foundations course. Governance expert Roger Barker introduces the course and shares tips to support your learning.

  • Why good governance matters

    Good governance is more than just rules and processes - it underpins ethical leadership, organisational success and long term impact.

  • Choosing an approach

    Governance can take different forms. Explore how different boards adapt their approach to governance based on their unique contexts

  • Challenges to governance

    Governance isn't always straightforward. Explore the consequences of what happens when governance frameworks are poorly applied.

  • Next Steps

    Reflect on the essential governance principles you've learned this week & consider how they'll empower you in your journey to the boardroom.

• Week 2

  A Director's role

  • Introduction

    This week, we take a closer look at what boards do and who does what you'll explore the core functions of a board, different types of directors, and what to consider before joining a board.

  • The core functions of a board

    What exactly does a board do? Unpack the board's core responsibilities and how they can be structured.

  • Director roles decoded

    Not all directors are the same. Understand the differences between different types of directors and their purpose in the boardroom.

  • Joining a board

    Who can become a board director? Explore what are the attributes of an effective director and where to start your journey to the boardroom.

  • Next Steps

    You've explored what boards do and who does what. Now Consider: Where could you add value and what would you need to feel confident stepping into the role of director.

• Week 3

  A Director's mindset

  • Introduction

    This week is all about how directors think. Explore the mindset behind good leadership from self-awareness and risk to the impact you have beyond the organisation.

  • Developing the mindset of a director

    Explore personal leadership styles, the traits of great leaders, and the qualities that define an effective director’s mindset.

  • Where a director's mindset makes a difference

    Explore how directors think and act by focusing on three key behaviours.

  • Responding to risk

    Risk is part of every board's agenda - but how directors think about risk makes all the difference. Explore how mindset, awareness and judgement shape effective risk oversight.

  • Next Steps

    This week focused on how directors think and lead. What elements of the director's mindset do you already demonstrate and which ones could you start developing now?

• Week 4

  Board Dynamics

  • Introduction

    Strong boards don't just make good decisions - they work well together. This week, explore how dynamics, behaviour, and bias shape the way boards function and preform.

  • Successful board dynamics

    Effective boards are made up of directors with a range of diverse skills and perspectives. This section highlights the importance of a balanced board.

  • Board behaviours

    Reflect on how emotional intelligence, transparency & integrity shape your contribution in team settings. What impact do these behaviours have in the boardroom.

  • Personal bias and groupthink

    Even the most experienced boards are vulnerable to bias. Learn how to combat bias and create space for a more effective team.

  • Next Steps

    Effective boards are built on strong relationships. Reflect on the behaviours and dynamics that shape board performance and how you might contribute to a healthy board culture.

• Week 5

  Are you ready for the boardroom?

  • Introduction

    As the course draws to a close, it's time to focus on you . This week helps you reflect on your progress, asses your readiness, and take the next steps towards becoming an effective director.

  • Taking stock

    It’s time to pause and reflect on your development so far. In this section, you’ll assess your strengths, areas of improvements and consider your next steps.

  • Building blocks for your development

    As you look ahead, this section focuses on how to keep developing beyond the course — through taking action, finding support, and staying connected to a community of peers.

  • Congratulations

    Congratulations on completing the course! You’ve taken an important step in your governance journey — don’t forget to download your certificate of completion and celebrate your progress.

Who will you learn with?