Derwen College, a nationally-renowned specialist college in Shropshire, is offering professionals the opportunity to share their expertise as part of a board of governors that helps transform lives.
Could you help make a difference as a Derwen College governor?
Based at the college’s Gobowen campus, governors provide oversight of and support to the leadership team, and are responsible for approving the college and charity’s strategic direction.
At Derwen College, students aged 16–25 years old with a diverse range of learning difficulties and disabilities, are enabled to reach their aspirations, become more independent and enjoy experiences and opportunities to enrich their lives.
Anyone taking on this highly rewarding role will be expected to attend around six Board meetings, and six committee meetings each year, which are held weekdays in Gobowen, usually from 3–5pm. There are also opportunities to be part of Derwen Charity events, and you’ll receive invitations to see students perform in the ever-popular Christmas and summer shows.
If you have skills and experience that you can bring to governing a complex and multi-faceted organisation, please get in touch. Applications are especially welcomed from qualified accountants and those with experience in care or further education. Experience in the SEND sector would also be a real advantage.
Derwen College Principal and CEO Meryl Green says:
“Our governors and trustees set the mission and strategic direction of the college. They are also responsible for scrutinising the college’s performance. Becoming a Board member allows you to be part of the positive work that Derwen College does with young people with SEND.
“You will gain new skills and experience that can help you to develop your own career. This really is a unique and rewarding opportunity to be part of an award-winning college and charity that make a difference.”
Governor’s experience
Derwen College governor Abi Plowden, who is Director of Learning at Moreton Hall school, in Weston Rhyn, has been a governor for nearly two years. She says:
“Being a governor for Derwen College is a privilege. It is an honour to participate in many events such as student performances and celebrations for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards.
The role offers time to meet staff and students and play an active part in college life, and allows me to utilise the skills I have in my profession and also develop new ones.
“The college offers a comprehensive continued professional development programme. I have been given many opportunities, including learning Makaton. Staff and fellow governors are on hand to answer questions, and full support is given at the start, and commitments are planned far enough in advance to make the role manageable around home and work life.
Derwen College is much more than a further educational college, and I am proud to be part of it.”
For further information email Mark Baker, Governance Professional, at mark.baker@derwen.ac.uk or telephone 01691 661234 extension 359.
Closing date for applications is 27 January 2025.