Apprenticeships communications volunteer roles
Inclusive Boards is delighted to support Health Sciences University in their search for two Independent Governors.
We are also supporting the appointment of the next Chair of the Board of Governors. If you are interested in this role, please visit our opportunities page.
Health Sciences University (HSU) stands at the forefront of health and care education, research, leadership and practice. Formed in July 2024 through the merger of AECC University College and the University College of Osteopathy, HSU brings together a proud legacy of innovation and global leadership in health education, spanning over a century.
With a diverse community of around 2,500 students and over 400 staff, HSU offers more than 30 courses across allied health, sport and exercise sciences, psychology and mental health, chiropractic, osteopathy, and healthcare leadership and management. HSU’s commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in their growing portfolio of apprenticeships, accredited CPD, and masterclasses, supporting the health and care workforce across the UK and internationally.
HSU is seeking to appoint two new Independent Governors to the Board of Governors as a result of existing members retiring at the end of their terms of office. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction and governance of our university, ensuring we continue to thrive in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. Please also note that we will also be seeking to appoint a new Chair of Finance & Performance Committee at an appropriate point later in the year.
About the Governor Opportunities:
We are currently seeking to appoint two new Independent Governors. Whilst our Board already demonstrates breadth and depth of experience, at this time we are particularly seeking candidates with expertise in finance and accountancy. Candidates will:
- Bring an understanding of financial modelling.
- Be able to stimulate thinking on the Board around the ways in which the University might best prepare itself financially for the future.
- Be able to ask strategic questions and constructively challenge the Board and Executive.
- Provide experience of contributing to the shaping of strategy and the oversight of delivery of strategic objectives.
- Whilst maintaining a strategic focus, monitor the Institution’s approach to risk management, challenge management decision-making processes and outcomes, and demonstrate a well-developed commercial acumen.
- Above all, candidates will demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of the University.
We are seeking people from a variety of backgrounds to join our Policy Approval Panel. The purpose of the panel is to support the Workforce Professional Development Boards (WPDBs) by applying the appropriate scrutiny to the development and review of workforce policies developed by the sport and physical sector supported by CIMSPA.
The Policy Approval Panel will check whether the due process has been followed in the development and review of sector workforce policies such as professional standards, standards for deployment and apprenticeship standards. It will also check the accuracy of said policies, ensuring that anything issued to the WPDBs for approval is accurate and fit for purpose.
It is anticipated that the panel will meet three times per year ahead of the WPDB meetings but if there are no policies for approval of the board, the meeting will not be held.
An initial induction/standardisation meeting will be held in person, thereafter meetings will be held remotely with papers issued for review ahead of the meeting.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available across England.
Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?
By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.
Why it’s relevant to professionals like you
Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.
As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.
This is an opportunity to:
- Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
- Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
- Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
- Support a vital sector during a time of transformation
What you’ll do
As part of a governing board, you’ll:
- Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
- Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
- Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
- Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance
You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.
Who we’re looking for
We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:
- Finance, Audit & Risk
- HR, People & Culture
- Strategy, Transformation & Operations
- Technology, AI & Digital
- Legal, Governance & Compliance
- Marketing, PR & Communications
- Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses
What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.
Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.
Time commitment
Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:
- Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or hybrid)
- Reading papers and preparing questions
- Participating in training and occasional college visits
The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.
Where you’ll be needed
We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. We’ll work with you to match your skills and location with a college in need of your expertise.
What’s in it for you?
· Enhance your board-level and governance experience
· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role
· Expand your professional network
· Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact
· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors
Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?
If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.