Sheffield College Launches Appeal For New Governors

8th April 2014

Business and secondary education experts are needed to steer the direction of one of the largest further education colleges in South Yorkshire.

The Sheffield College is inviting volunteers to join its Governing Body. The College plays a major role in the city delivering academic and vocational courses to more than 20,000 young people and adults a year. Graded 'Good' by the education watchdog Ofsted last year, the College offers a vast range of academic, vocational and professional courses, and apprenticeships. Its annual economic impact on the city of Sheffield is £321 million as the talents of current and former learners contribute to workforce skills, businesses growth and the region's economy. More than 70% of students stay and work in the city region. Learners acquire the qualifications and skills they need to go onto the next level course, get into a job or career, set up their own business or study at university. The College is currently investing £15.6 million in new engineering and manufacturing, sustainable construction, creative and digital media and performing arts facilities. Individuals from a wide range of backgrounds are invited to apply, by May 12th at the latest, to join the Governing Body. They will include those familiar with working at a strategic level who have professional skills and experience in ICT systems, small and medium size business development, and the education sector, particularly with experience of secondary schools and academy conversion. Volunteers do not need to live in Sheffield. Heather MacDonald, Chief Executive, The Sheffield College, said: "Business expertise is vital to building on our current success, and shaping the education and training of future generations. We have invested considerable resources into understanding employers' needs, and ensuring our facilities and courses match them. Our students are not only able to work within an organisation. They learn how to contribute to and improve it." Richard Wright, Chair of The Sheffield College Governing Body, and Executive Director of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "The College has done a brilliant job over the last few years stabilising its position and understanding how it becomes a real contributor to the region now and in the future. This is a dynamic and ambitious college that wants to go places and needs the right governors to help it do that. It is a massively satisfying role which makes a real contribution at all levels in the city and region, so we hope we get some top quality applications. For more information contact Val Struggles, Clerk to the Corporation, on 0114 2602620 or email val.struggles@sheffcol.ac.uk. Completed expressions of interest forms / CVs should be returned by May 12th 2014. Interviews will be held in June.