As part of the University’s widening participation and social responsibility strategy, we already boast one of the UK’s most extensive programmes of work with local state schools and colleges – particularly those in more challenging circumstances.

In accordance with the University’s access and participation plan with the Office for Students, we deliver a School Governor Initiative that helps staff and alumni to find volunteering placements as governors in local schools through our 2 partner organisations, Governors for Schools and Inspiring Governance. It also provides a network for University staff working as governors to share best practice, support each other and act as positive ambassadors for the University’s work with schools and colleges. We have almost 200 staff current staff volunteering as governors across Greater Manchester and beyond. Our 2021 Impact Report details the wide impacts our governors have, and you can read some of our case studies online.

Our partners Governors for Schools are running an online information event for staff from universities across the North of England to find out more about becoming a school governor. Attendees will hear from university employees who are school governors to learn about their motivations for volunteering, the impact they make on young people’s lives, and how they’ve developed new skills through the role. This online event will also cover the core responsibilities of a school governor, the benefits of undertaking the role, and the time commitment required. The event will take place at 12.30pm on Tuesday 6^thDecember and is open to all university staff.