Student Governor

Group of students laughing and smiling

Want to Make a Real Difference at College? Become a Student Governor!

Are you passionate about education and want to help shape the future of Gateshead College? We’re looking for two Student Governors, one aged 16–18 and one aged 19+ to join our Board of Governors.

This is your chance to have your voice heard and help make decisions that matter to students like you!

Why Should You Get Involved?

  • Help decide the direction of the college and make sure students’ needs are front and centre.
  • Build confidence, improve your communication, and work with experienced Board members.
  • Stand out to employers and universities by showing you’ve made a real impact.
  • Work alongside governors, college managers, and other students.
  • See how your ideas and input can help improve college life for everyone.

What’s a Student Governor?

A Student Governor is a student chosen by other students to join the Board of Governors.

You’ll bring your unique student perspective to important discussions and decisions about the college. It’s all about making sure the student voice is part of every big decision.

What Does a Student Governor Actually Do?

  • Work with the Board to make sure the college meets the needs of students and the local community.
  • Help make sure public funds are used wisely.
  • Make sure the college is run properly and follows all the rules.
  • Attend meetings, share your ideas, and be an ambassador for the college.
  • Take part in training and development opportunities.

You’ll be a full voting member of the Board, representing either the 16–18 or 19+ age group. Your input helps the Board understand what matters most to students.

What Does the Board Do?

The Board sets the college’s overall direction, manages finances, and makes sure everything runs smoothly. They don’t run the day-to-day stuff, that’s up to the Principal and senior staff, but they make the big decisions that shape your college experience.

Who’s on the Board?

Check out the current Board members here.

What Are Meetings Like?

You’ll get meeting papers ahead of time so you can read and be ready for meetings.

The Director of Governance & Compliance is there to support you ahead of, during and after meetings.

Meetings include presentations from staff, discussions, and decision-making.

When Are the Meetings?

You’ll need to be able to attend these meetings:

Meeting Type

Meeting Date

Meeting Time

Board Meeting

Wednesday 5 November 2025

4pm to 6pm

Board Strategy Day

Thursday 6 November 2025

9am-4pm

Curriculum and Quality Standards Committee

Thursday 20 November 2025

1pm-3pm

Board Meeting

Wednesday 10 December 2025

4pm-7pm

Followed by a Board Dinner

Curriculum and Quality Standards Committee

Thursday 12 February 2026

4pm-6pm

Curriculum and Quality Standards Committee

Wednesday 1 April 2026

2.30pm-3pm

Board Meeting

Wednesday 1 April 2026

4pm-6pm

Board Strategy Day

Thursday 2 April 2026

9am-4pm

Curriculum and Quality Standards Committee

Thursday 11 June 2026

4pm-6pm

Board Meeting

Wednesday 1 July 2026

4pm-7pm

If you’re appointed as a Student Governor, it’s really important that you:

  • Attend all the meetings listed above.
  • Come prepared by reading the meeting papers and thinking about the topics in advance.

Being a Student Governor is a real responsibility, but don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of support and training to help you succeed. Your input makes a difference, so we need you to be present and ready to contribute!

Will I Get Support and Training?

Absolutely! The Director of Governance & Compliance is here to help you every step of the way. You’ll get an induction, training, and chances to join external events. While the role isn’t paid, we’ll cover extra costs like travel to meetings.

Interested or Want to Know More?

Email Nicola Taylor, Director of Governance & Compliance, at [email protected] if you have any questions or want to chat about the role.

How do I nominate myself?

Please complete the nominations form here by 29th September 2025.

What Happens Next?
  • Once the nominations close, there will be a student election so everyone can have their say in choosing who represents them.
  • The two Student Governors (16–18 and 19+) will be officially appointed by November 2025