About the Group
The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is dedicated to achieving excellence as a first-choice education provider, passionately serving all our communities. Our strategic priorities are centered on building future-ready skills, delivering transformative results, fostering inclusion and belonging, and ensuring resilience and sustainability in all operations.
The Role
We are looking for a Governor with a strong background in IT and AI, gained through a relevant professional role, coupled with proven business expertise and the capacity to operate at a strategic level (senior management experience is advantageous).
As a Governor, you will help shape the strategic direction of the Group, monitor its performance, and ensure resources are used effectively to achieve high standards in education, financial stability, and governance.
Key Responsibilities
As a member of the Governing Body, you will:
- Define and periodically review the Group’s educational character, mission, and strategy.
- Monitor performance, provision quality, and learner outcomes.
- Oversee financial sustainability, solvency, and the safeguarding of assets.
- Approve annual budgets for income and expenditure.
- Act as a critical friend, offering support and constructive challenge to senior leadership.
- Share collective responsibility for decisions made by the Board.
Governors are expected to adhere to the Code of Conduct, including the Nolan Principles of Public Life, and act in the best interest of the Group at all times.
Time Commitment and Meetings
The Governing Body typically meets five times during the academic year, generally in the early evening (around 3–4 pm). Each Governor is also part of at least one committee and may serve as a Lead Governor for a specific area (e.g., safeguarding or SEND), depending on their expertise. Meetings are held across the Group’s campuses in Wakefield, Castleford, and Selby.
Person Specification
You will bring:
- Proven expertise in IT and AI, coupled with relevant business experience.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively in strategic discussions.
- Sound judgment, integrity, and an independent, inquisitive mindset.
- A commitment to the advancement of further education and improving learner outcomes.
- The time and enthusiasm to contribute actively to the Board’s work.
No formal qualifications are required. Applications are encouraged from individuals across public, private, and community sectors.
Training, Support, and Expenses
You will receive a comprehensive induction and ongoing development opportunities. The role is voluntary, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed in accordance with the Group’s policies.
Equality, Diversity, and Safeguarding
We are passionate about equality, diversity, and inclusion, and we invite applications from all members of the community. Governors must promote these values and actively support the safeguarding and welfare of learners. Appointments are subject to appropriate eligibility checks, including those by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Application Process
- Application Deadline: 3rd August 2026.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Successful recommendations will then be made to the Governing Body.
For further discussion, please contact:
Sam Cremore
Head of Governance and Legal Services
Phone: 01924 789208
Email: [email protected]
Additional Information
The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is deeply committed to safeguarding students. The role is subject to pre-employment vetting in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines, including an Enhanced DBS Disclosure. Evidence of essential qualifications outlined in the Person Specification will also be required.
Overseas Criminal Record Check
If you have lived or worked overseas in the last five years, you will need to provide an overseas criminal record check. For guidance, visit: Criminal records checks for overseas applicants – GOV.UK.
Recognition for Diversity and Inclusion
We are proud to hold the Investors in Diversity Silver accreditation, awarded by the National Centre for Diversity, in recognition of our commitment to FREDIE principles (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Engagement). We strive to build a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve and warmly welcome applications from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
For more information about the role and its requirements, click “Apply” to access the full job description on our careers website.
We look forward to hearing from you!