Join our Governing Body and Shape the Future of Tech Education
The School of Coding & AI (SOC) is entering a bold new chapter and we are seeking exceptional governors to help shape it.
Founded by entrepreneur and educator Mandeep Athwal, the School of Coding has grown from a local coding school into one of the UK’s most dynamic digital education organisations. SOC works with schools, employers, and universities to widen access to technology related careers by opening doors for learners who have historically been excluded from Higher Education and the digital economy.
This year, we will be delivering Higher Education provision in Birmingham to over 2000 students on degree programmes with university partners and we are actively pursuing Office for Students (OfS) registration. Our governing body seeks exceptional individuals to provide strategic oversight, independent challenge, and assurance during this pivotal registration and growth phase.
Vacancies (3-year terms, unremunerated)
Appointments to the Governing Body are based on the following criteria:
1. Personal Attributes: Demonstrated commitment to the Nolan Principles of Public Life and values consistent with those of the School of Coding and AI.
2. Track Record: Full compliance with Fit and Proper Person requirements as part of onboarding and annual review processes.
3. Professional Skills: Alignment with the competencies set out in the Skills Matrix. We currently seeking new governors with one or more of the following attributes or experience:
4. Board Leadership: managing executive performance, and fostering constructive challenge
5. Financial Director / CFO: Senior finance leader ideally with familiarity with OfS financial sustainability metrics.
6. External Audit / Risk Specialist: Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA) or audit committee chair with external audit practice or internal audit oversight in regulated sectors; ideally with experience of OfS-aligned risk registers and regulatory interventions.
7. Legally Qualified: ideally with expertise in Higher Education, including subcontracting/franchising arrangements.
8. Facilities & Estates: with working experience of health and safety and ideally experience of managing learning spaces.
Equality & Diversity
We particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups in Higher Education governance.
Role & Time Commitment
- 4-6 meetings/year (hybrid, 2-3 hours each) including sub-committee work (Audit and Risk, Remuneration, Nominations and Governance, or Academic Board).
- Preparation time: 2 hours per meeting.
- Provide independent scrutiny of executive decisions, support readiness for OfS registration conditions, student outcomes, and financial sustainability.
- Champion student protection, quality enhancement, and mission-led growth in digital and professional skills.
To Apply
Submit a CV (max 3 pages) and a cover letter addressing your fit for the role and skills area by 28 February 2026 to [email protected]. Interviews: March 2026.
