Further education governance: the role of governors in further education (FE) college improvement

摘要

This research investigates Further Education (FE) governance and governors’ role(s) in college improvement and related issues. Empirical data is derived from semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis of governors’ meeting minutes. A total of 14 Standards committee (SC) governors and 6 principals from 6 FE colleges in the Midlands region of England agreed to be interviewed. Data from these individual interviews were supplemented by an analysis of SC governors’ meeting minutes from each of the 6 colleges in order to obtain rich data on the role of governors in college improvement. Findings suggest that ‘good’ governors with a good skill base can contribute to college improvement through their monitoring and challenging role; their role in appointing the principal and senior management; setting the strategic direction of the college and by acting as a ‘critical friend’ to the principal. It emerged from this study that governors are a group of individuals with different family, educational and professional backgrounds who are seeking a new identity and they need help in their ‘identity transformation’. This study, therefore, suggests the need for an induction and training programme for new governors, which includes ‘coaching and mentoring’ so that governors are continually supported in their ‘governorship’ journey.