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Being a College Governor

Zoe Lewis presents to the board of governors

Governors play a vital role in shaping the future of Middlesbrough College. As members of the Governing Body, they provide strategic leadership, support the College’s long-term success, and help ensure the very best outcomes for our students, staff, and wider community.

Our Governing Body comprises of 23 governors, including independent governors, staff governors, and student governors. We are also supported by co-opted governors who bring specialist knowledge and expertise to our committees.

All governors are volunteers who contribute their skills, experience, and insight to help guide the College. They work closely with the Principal and Executive Team, providing both support and constructive challenge while ensuring the College remains financially strong, legally compliant, and focused on delivering high-quality education.

We are always keen to hear from individuals who can bring fresh perspectives, diverse experiences, and a genuine interest in education and skills. Successful governors are naturally curious, confident asking questions, and able to analyse information critically. Above all, they are committed to helping Middlesbrough College achieve its strategic ambitions and serve its communities effectively.

We therefore seek individuals who are passionate about supporting the education and opportunities that people have from across our region.

Why Become a Governor?

Being a governor offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Influence the strategic direction of one of the region’s leading colleges.
  • Contribute your professional expertise to support education and skills development.
  • Develop your own leadership, governance, and decision-making experience.
  • Work alongside experienced professionals from a wide range of sectors.
  • Make a meaningful difference to the lives of students, staff, employers, and the local community.
  • Develop a deeper understanding of how large public sector organisations are managed and operated.
  • Build strong links with governor and employees from a variety of backgrounds.

Stock photo of business people networking

Additionally, for working governors:

  • the enhanced skills set you will develop will be directly transferable to your workplace and/or future career
  • the opportunity to inform the college in respect of your employer’s/sector’s skills needs

Governors are expected to review detailed information, challenge assumptions where appropriate, and apply professional judgement to support effective decision-making. A willingness to question, learn, and think strategically is just as important as previous governance experience.

New Governors are provided with a comprehensive induction programme, alongside support and development opportunities throughout their term of office. You will join a welcoming and experienced Governing Body made up of professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds who value active participation and constructive debate.

Core Responsibilities of All Governors

Strategic Leadership
  • Help shape the College’s vision, mission, values, and long-term objectives.
  • Support and monitor the performance of the Principal/CEO and senior leadership team.
  • Contribute fully to discussions and uphold collective decisions once agreed.
Financial Oversight
  • Ensure the College remains financially sustainable and solvent.
  • Oversee the effective use of public funding and resources.
  • Review and approve budgets, financial plans, and key investment decisions.
Performance and Quality
  • Provide constructive challenge and support to senior leaders.
  • Monitor educational performance, student outcomes, and the learner experience.
  • Ensure continuous improvement across all aspects of the College.
Governance and Compliance
  • Uphold the Governing Body’s Code of Conduct, Instrument and Articles of Government, and Standing Orders.
  • Ensure the College meets all legal, regulatory, and statutory obligations.
  • Maintain the highest standards of integrity in line with the Seven Principles of Public Life (Nolan Principles).
Ethics and Confidentiality
  • Declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
  • Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
  • Act with professionalism, objectivity, skill, care, and diligence at all times.

Governor Opportunities

We share details of specialised vacancies as they occur on this page and also via LinkedIn.

Current vacancies

Expressions of interest/further enquiry should be directed to Zeta Foster, Head of Governance at z.foster@mbro.ac.uk in the first instance.

For general College Governor vacancies when they occur, we look for experience in education, business, finance, digital, public service, health, community engagement, or other professional fields, your skills and perspective could make a valuable contribution. We look for people passionate about supporting learners, shaping the future of education, and making a positive impact across the Tees Valley.

If you would like to note your interest in any future vacancies, either as a full College Governor and/or Co-opted Governor please feel free to email Zeta Foster, Head of Governance on z.foster@mbro.ac.uk or call 01642 333269.