Chair of the Corporation

We are seeking an outstanding leader to become the next Chair of the Corporation at Barton Peveril Sixth Form College. Passionate about sixth form education, you will bring strategic vision, strong leadership, and the ability to champion our students, staff, and values. As a trusted ambassador, you will work closely with the Principal, guide a diverse governing body, and help shape the future of one of Hampshire’s most successful and inclusive colleges.

Location: Eastleigh, Hampshire

Time commitment: 2-3 days per month

Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 4th November

Who we are

Barton Peveril Sixth Form College is a large and successful sixth form college based on Chestnut Avenue in Eastleigh, Hampshire. Serving in excess of 5,000 students in full-time education, the college has grown into one of the most respected providers of post-16 education in the region. Under the leadership of its current principal, Rob Temple, Barton Peveril has established a reputation for high standards, strong results, and continuous investment in facilities.

The college was inspected by Ofsted in November 2022 and was rated “Outstanding” in every area, including quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. Its academic record reflects this reputation: in recent years the overall pass rate for Level 3 qualifications has been close to 99 per cent, with strong achievement rates and many students securing top grades at both A Level and in vocational equivalents such as BTECs and Cambridge Technical qualifications.

Students at Barton Peveril can choose from a broad range of courses, from traditional academic A Levels to vocational programmes, with support provided for progression into higher education, apprenticeships, or employment. Specialist initiatives such as the Aspire programme and dedicated Oxbridge support give different groups of students tailored guidance, while opportunities like the Extended Project Qualification, volunteering, sports, and performing arts enrich the wider student experience.

About the role

The Chair of the Corporation at Barton Peveril Sixth Form College is a strategic leadership role, focused on guiding governance and championing the college as one of Hampshire’s most successful and inclusive post-16 providers. The Chair is expected to act as an ambassador for the college, promoting its values and achievements externally while always putting students first.

Working closely with the Principal, Rob Temple, the Chair will provide guidance, challenge, and support as a trusted partner in shaping the college’s long-term direction, without becoming involved in daily operations. They will lead and develop a governing body of around 20 Corporation and Committee members, ensuring it functions effectively in overseeing educational quality, financial sustainability, and delivery of the Strategic Plan.

The role calls for someone who understands and is passionate about the college, takes pride in its success, and communicates this with authority and compassion. In return, the Chair will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the student community, contribute to the ongoing success of a college with an Outstanding Ofsted rating and strong financial health, and help shape the future of a diverse and evolving governing body.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an exceptional individual to take on the role of Chair of the Corporation at Barton Peveril Sixth Form College. This is a position for someone who is passionate about sixth form education and about Barton Peveril in particular. While a background in education is not essential, the successful candidate must demonstrate a clear commitment to our mission and values, and a strong rationale for wanting to play an active part in the College’s journey.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to distinguish between governance and management, keeping the Corporation focused on strategic priorities rather than day-to-day operations. They will take the time to understand the College, its students, and the context in which it operates, and will engage fully with college life through regular meetings, visits to departments, and attendance at events and celebrations.

We are looking for a leader with sound judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively with senior leaders and governors. They will be able to articulate and champion the College’s vision with credibility, openness, and authority, while remaining receptive to new ideas and innovative ways of working.

Barton Peveril Sixth Form College and Peridot Partners are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 4th November.