Independent Governor

Who are we?

Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College (RHACC) is one of nine institutes of adult learning (IAL) in the UK and was established in October 2017 through the merger of Richmond Adult and Community College and Hillcroft College. The college utilises shared expertise in adult learning and is committed to the needs of adults and communities that require further educational or tailored opportunities to develop the skills to thrive and achieve their potential.

RHACC is the adult education provider of choice in South West London. Our skilled adult learning workforce delivers outstanding learning and development opportunities from first class facilities in Richmond.

What do governors do?

The Richmond and Hillcroft Adult and Community College Board determines the educational character and vision for the College. The Board approves the annual budget, capital and investment strategy as well as the College’s curriculum and quality strategy. The Board is the employer of the staff and management of the College. 

The Board consists of a maximum of 17 members, who act as company directors as well as charity trustees. The Board normally meets five times a year. It may also meet on other occasions (e.g. during Governors’ Development Events, which are used to develop the leadership and other skills of the Board and to concentrate on strategic issues facing the College).  There are four committees: Audit, Finance and Resources, Quality and Standards and Search and Governance and governors will be asked to serve on at least one committee. It is estimated that the time commitment for a governor serving on the Board and one Committee is approximately five hours a month.

In joining the Board you will gain the chance to contribute widely to the life of the College, get involved in thinking about its future direction, reflecting on educational issues and how they affect the local community.     

Why become a college governor?

Although the role of college governor is unpaid, there are significant personal and professional benefits to taking this position. Becoming a governor provides not only plenty of opportunities to really shape your local community, but the professional benefits also gained from the role cannot be understated either. You will be able to develop leadership skills on the job, as well as upskilling and refreshing your knowledge in a vibrant and impactful environment.

Every year, 6,000 people become governors in the FE sphere in the almost 300 colleges in the UK. In England alone, 1.7 million students attend FE, sixth form and specialist colleges, underlining the huge influence and responsibility that college governors have. One of the most rewarding aspects of becoming a college governor is the position it affords you to give others a helping hand on their journey through life. 

What skills and experience are required?

College governors are expected to share their knowledge, ideas and enthusiasm within a forum of like-minded individuals. There isn’t one type of person best suited to becoming a governor and you don’t need a qualification to do so.  But in deciding to apply ask yourself the following questions: 

As a Board member, can I put aside personal interest and make decisions for the good of the College as a whole, respecting confidentiality and sharing collective responsibility?Do I understand and accept the “Standards of behaviour for those in public life”?

(Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership) 

Am I able to put in time to attend meetings, to read the papers beforehand and to contribute to discussions? 

The College wishes the membership of the Board to encompass a wide variety of experience and cultural backgrounds. 

Previous applicants will not be reconsidered within 12 months. 

Please contact the Clerk if you would like further information about the role – [email protected] 

Closing Date: 26 Jan 2026

Level 3: Academic

Salary: The role is not remunerated although reasonable expenses can be claimed