Governors | The Windsor Forest Colleges Group

Peridot Partners; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic education organization is looking for new Governors to join their Board. This non-executive role involves strategic oversight and policy development, contributing approximately 15 hours per term. Candidates should have experience in auditing, finance, risk management, and higher education. This is a valuable opportunity to impact local communities and support educational growth.

Benefits

Opportunity to influence strategic decisions

Induction and development support

Access to a network of governors and industry leaders

Qualifications

• Experience in higher education (academic leadership, finance, estates, IT/digital or curriculum development).
• Evidence of strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• Commitment to the principles of excellence, respect, integrity, and diversity.

Responsibilities

• Attend board meetings and contribute to policy development.
• Chair or support committees, providing oversight of audit and governance.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to shape long-term strategy.

Skills

Audit and finance expertise

Risk management

Cybersecurity

Strategic thinking

Strong communication skills

Education

Qualified accountant or auditor

Job description

Join the Board of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group and support learners across Berkshire in building the skills, knowledge and resilience they need to thrive in a changing world.

About the group

The Windsor Forest Colleges Group is a vibrant and forward‑thinking further education provider, comprising two Sixth Form Colleges (Strode’s and Windsor) and specialist technical, vocational and land‑based training at Slough & Langley and BCA. With more than 7,000 learners and around 1,000 staff, we deliver A Levels, T Levels, apprenticeships, college courses, ALFIE and adult learning programmes.

Role overview

We are seeking new Governors to join our Corporation. Governance is non‑executive and part of a termly board that meets throughout the academic year, supported by sub‑committees:

• Audit Committee
• Strategy, Governance & Search Committee
• Quality and Curriculum Committee

A Governor’s time commitment is approximately 15 hours per term, including five board meetings and one committee meeting. The role involves strategic direction, scrutiny, and ensuring the college meets its statutory and regulatory duties.

Key responsibilities

• Attend board meetings and contribute to policy development.
• Chair or support committees, providing oversight of audit, governance and curriculum.
• Provide constructive challenge and expertise related to finance, risk management, cybersecurity, and higher education.
• Collaborate with the Group Principal, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Corporation to shape long‑term strategy.
• Engage with stakeholders, promote inclusion and drive continuous improvement.

Required qualifications and experience

• Qualified accountant or auditor with experience in audit and finance.
• Senior professional with expertise in risk management or cyber security.
• Experience in higher education (academic leadership, finance, estates, IT/digital or curriculum development).
• Evidence of strategic thinking, sound judgement and strong communication skills.
• Commitment to the principles of excellence, respect, integrity and diversity.

Benefits of joining

• Opportunity to influence strategic decisions and support the development of local communities.
• Induction and development support from the Association of Colleges and other sector bodies.
• Access to a network of governors and industry leaders.

Accessibility information

• Step‑free access to all key meeting rooms and bathrooms.
• Dogs are welcome.
• Interview rooms with hearing loops and sign language interpreters are available.
• Materials can be provided in alternative formats.
• Working patterns and locations can be adjusted.

Application process

To formally apply, please submit a CV and supporting statement to [e-mail]. In the email subject line, include Application: The Windsor Forest Colleges Group—Governors. We will acknowledge receipt within 2–3 days.

Timetable

Closing date: 1st December
Candidates informed of outcome: 8th December
First stage Interviews: 16th December

Equality and diversity

We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and provide a fair and inclusive application process.

Data processing and privacy

By submitting your application, you agree to the processing of your personal data by Peridot Partners and The Windsor Forest Colleges Group under the Data Protection Act 2018.