The Instrument and Articles of Government form the legal basis under which the governing body operates and set out its powers and responsibilities. Its key statutory responsibilities are:

• the determination and periodic review of the educational character and mission of the institution
• publishing arrangements for obtaining the views of staff and students
• the effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of the institution and safeguarding the College's assets
• approving annual estimates of income and expenditure
• the appointment, grading, suspension, dismissal, appraisal and determination of pay and conditions of the Principal, designated senior post holders and the Clerk

NESCOT Instrument and Articles of Government

The Corporation has developed a committee structure and a series of policies to enable it to carry out its responsibilities in accordance with the Instrument and Articles of Government, and to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the agencies which provide funding, and that it operates within the laws relating to employment, health and safety, equality and diversity, and the openness of public organisations.