We are an independent further education corporation, formed under the Further & Higher Education Act 1992. So, what does the Board actually do? Our role is a strategic one. We don’t get involved in the day-to-day management but we do take legal responsibility for the College Group.

Who are we? Board members are known as ‘Governors’, individuals with a broad skillset and experience drawn from local communities and businesses, as well as from the public sector. The Board also includes staff members, student governors and the college CEO. The CEO (the only executive member on the Board) has a very busy but fulfilling role, being responsible for the entire operational running of ESC. They do however, have significant support; the Board is advised by a Director of Governance, a professional independent of college management who accesses independent professional advice. The CEO and Board are also supported by a ‘senior leadership team’ with educational, financial and other relevant expertise. The East Sussex College Group Board, CEO and leadership team work together to set and implement college strategy and to be responsible stewards of the college’s assets.

We meet up at least four times a year and carry out further work via our committee structure.

Our main priorities are to:

• determine the mission for the College (its “educational character”)
• ensure high standards are achieved in all aspects of the college’s work
• maintain financial solvency and protect the college’s assets
• ensure compliance with statutory requirements at all times
• oversee all aspects of the college’s work and to act as a ‘critical friend’ to the CEO and executive management team

As we work to ensure our priorities are met, we commit to:

• openness and accountability: we post minutes of Board meetings and key documents to ensure transparency.
• the equality and diversity of all our students, staff and service users.
• welcome applications to join the Board from all members of the community.