Our governors play a vital role in the success of the Hart Learning Group (HLG), providing a wealth of experience from across different social and professional backgrounds to ensure the group is well-run and high-achieving. We’re currently looking to build our Governance team – could you be part of the future of HLG?
We are keen to bring a range of perspectives to our Governance team, please do get in touch below if you are interested in any role within the team.
We’re also currently recruiting a Chairperson for our Finance Committee – could you bring the experience we need?
The main role of a governor is to ensure the effectiveness of the College and the Group. As such, your key priorities will be:
Governors are typically appointed to serve a four-year term.
Becoming a governor for the Hart Learning Group will not only ensure the effective running of the Group but also provides you with an opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise whilst developing further skills.
We’re keen to welcome a diverse and broad range of skills from across all sectors of society and business to help shape and advise our organisation. We’re open to speaking to people from a range of industries and professional fields and would love to hear from you if you feel you can bring something to our team.
The overarching skills and abilities of a governor are defined by the DfE as:
Confident – Playing an active role on the board requires an independent mind and the confidence to express opinions when leading or contributing to courageous conversations.
Committed – Governors devote time and energy to a volunteer role, to achieve the best possible outcomes for young people. They should be prepared to give time, skills, and knowledge to developing both themselves and others to create highly effective governance.
Curious – An enquiring mind and analytical approach is essential for understanding the value of meaningful questioning.
Challenging – Governors should be able to challenge the status quo. A good governor will question information and data to find ways to improve.
Collaborative – A board of governors who are prepared to listen to each other and work in partnership, and who recognise the importance of building strong working relationships within the College community, creates the best possible outcomes for a governance group.
Critical – Through critical friendships, governors can both challenge and support processes and colleagues to drive improvements in both personal and board effectiveness.
Creative – Approaching governance with an open and creative mind allows governors to challenge conventional wisdom.
The role of a governor is very different to that of a senior manager. These differences are summarised in the table below.
Vernon McClure
"I have greatly enjoyed being a two-term governor of HLG. The Senior Management Team are receptive to advice and challenge from governors whose experience usually stems from a different background. The students are motivated and a joy to work alongside."
Toni Beck
“I have found being a governor at North Hertfordshire College a really rewarding and positive experience. I am passionate about further education and thoroughly enjoy being part of an organisation which really does change people’s lives. The role has enabled me to use my skills and experience in a range of different ways and I enjoy contributing to the discussions and decision-making processes which inform the strategic direction of this wonderful college.”
Richard Wilson
“North Hertfordshire College plays a crucial role in equipping students with the skills they need to progress into work or further learning. Governors have the privilege of being able to contribute to the vital work of the College, which makes a real difference to learners’ lives.”
Philip Moore
"Being a governor is very rewarding and I greatly enjoy feeling part of a team who is working to improve the prospects and wellbeing of young adults, as well as those later in their educational journey who sometimes come from very challenging backgrounds. I strongly believe that our students deserve both the very best and most relevant education we can provide for them, and it is a privilege for me to serve alongside talented colleagues who strive every day to provide an outstanding experience to all at the Hart Learning Group."
If you’re interested in bringing your experience and expertise to a governor role with the Hart Learning Group, please complete the contact form below. One of our team will be in touch for an informal chat to further discuss the opportunity and provide more information.
We welcome applications from candidates from all different backgrounds and identities to apply. Every new person who joins the Group as a governor brings a new perspective to our work in supporting learners in the community, and we’re committed to building an inclusive and supportive environment for our students and teams.