Model constitution

Many different terms can be used for a voluntary organisation or charity's governing document. Most, if not all PTAs, will be unincorporated associations meaning that your association's governing document will be referred to as a constitution.

The constitution is probably the most important document your association has as it helps the committee members or trustees (if you are a registered charity) govern the organisation.

The Charity Commission for England and Wales describes a governing document as "the instruction manual" for the organisation. A PTA's constitution would therefore need to contain a range of information and powers to assist trustees and to accurately reflect the purpose of the charity and the activities it can and cannot take to fulfil its aims.

The creation of a governing document is understandably complex. To assist our members the NCPTA has produced two model constitutions; one for members in Northern Ireland and the other for members in England and Wales. To reflect the changes in the Charties Act 2006 the NCPTA has  revised the model constitution for members in England and Wales. As with previous versions, the NCPTA 2008 model constitution has received approval from the Charity Commission for England and Wales; when used without change, to achieve charitable status. HMRC Charities Division recognise the model constitution for Northern Ireland, for  charitable registration.

For more information on constitutions, why your association needs one and how to adopt a new constitution click here.

The NCPTA model constitutions are available to NCPTA members only. Please ensure you are logged in, then click here to access the model constitution for PTAs in England and Wales or the constitution for PTAs in Northern Ireland.  For more information about governing documents for charities visit the following websites:

1. Charity Commission 

2. ICSA (Institute of Chartered Secretaries and