At North Hertfordshire College, we make sure our students feel that their opinions and feedback is valued. That’s why we elect a student governor each year to bring the NHC student voice to governors’ meetings and explore how to make our college the very best it can be for our learners.
Say hello to Grace, Level 3 Forensics student and NHC Student Governor for 2025/26. We managed to find time in Grace’s busy schedule to discuss how she’s finding her role so far:
Why did you decide to apply for the Student Governor role?
“I was a student ambassador in my first year at NHC, focusing on maximising the use of our fantastic VR headsets. I helped implement them into PAD sessions and student wellbeing initiatives, and the governors even had a go during a meeting!
“I found my role as student ambassador really interesting, I particularly enjoyed working with students from across curriculums, and just learning about all different aspects of the College.
“Then, I met last year’s student governor, Fin, who explained the responsibilities involved in the role, so I went for it and was successful!”
Could you tell us about some of the key responsibilities involved in your role?
“I support the Student Voice at NHC. I’m available at all sites for learners to speak to me, and then the feedback is discussed with Heads of Curriculum and form key points within my report to governors.
“My student governor report includes key points from the Student Voice, a summary of key activities taking place across the College, and the impact of these.
“Through my role as student governor, I’ve supported the roll out of key events such as Higher Education events and fairs.”
As a governor, what impact do you hope to have on NHC?
“At the end of my time as student governor, I want to feel I have helped maximise NHC’s supportive, aspirational, and opportunity-rich environment. The events I’ve helped deliver have brought students from across campuses together, which I like to think will help the NHC Student Voice get even louder.
“I want students to remember that their voice is heard and valued at NHC, and that they can contribute to making the College the best it can be through ambassadorship, or a student governor role.”
What’s been a highlight of your time in the role so far?
“Honestly, just seeing people’s faces when I announce upcoming events or give updates on the progress of their ideas is brilliant. It’s so rewarding to see how happy they are. It’s genuinely such an incredible feeling to see students enjoying what I’ve worked to put in place.
“Working with the student ambassadors has been great, too. I’m confidently able to delegate tasks to them and support them with any projects or initiatives.”
“I suppose another highlight would have to be from my very first week as student governor. I attended the Student Governor of the Year Awards on Fin’s behalf just three days into my role! It was so fun to meet student governors from across the UK. Plus, the awards were held at the Burberry Headquarters in London, so that was pretty cool!”
Once you finish your course with us, what are your plans for the future?
“Well, I recently received an unconditional offer from Anglia Ruskin University to study Psychology! So, my main plan will be to complete my degree, possibly then a master’s, and then my PHD with the NHS.
“I’m also planning to continue volunteering with the Air Cadets and hopefully start seeing more of the world! I’d like to travel and learn as much as possible.
“I never expected to become Student Governor, if Year-11-me could speak to me now, she would be so proud and surprised about what I’ve achieved.”
How do you feel this role will compliment your career goals?
“The role has given me the confidence to raise and present ideas in a professional way. I will use these communication skills in any future job interviews. A few governors have kindly offered to help me prepare for interviews, which would also be incredibly useful!
“It really aided my UCAS application, too. The role also helped me learn a lot about myself and made me more independent.”
Have you got any advice for someone considering the student governor role at NHC?
“I’d probably remind them to put their education first. Being a student governor is fantastic but academic success is the priority. You can’t help people if you’re struggling yourself, that’s why the fantastic Student Experience team are there to support you in your role. Speak to them!
“Also, the Governor’s Meetings are formal and will require a professional outfit. This was something I found out the hard way when I decided to wear jeans to my first one!”
Finally, what’s the best part about studying at NHC?
“My tutors are incredible. They really do go above and beyond for us. Charles, Kishore, Rana, Peter, and the rest of the team all push us to be the best we can be, and they’re always there if we need any help.
“The tutors at NHC treat students like adults, and show they really care about our success. Our voices are heard, and we’re never spoken down to.”
What an impressive six months! We wish Grace the very best of luck with the rest of her time as Student Governor at North Hertfordshire College.
Want to find out more about the Board of Governors at NHC? Check out our Governors page.