AoC Governance Professionals Conference 2026

Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st January

The Governance Professionals Conference is the national event for Clerks, Governance Professionals, and Directors of Governance across the FE sector. This year’s programme will explore the evolving role of governance in a changing policy and regulatory landscape — shaped by the post-16 education and skills white paper, the new Ofsted framework, and the curriculum and assessment review.

Through a mix of keynotes, breakout sessions, and peer discussions, delegates will gain insight into emerging themes such as cyber security and risk management, AI and digital transformation, embedding inclusion, and the role of colleges in fostering community cohesion and belonging. This event offers fresh ideas, sector context, and practical tools to support effective, compliant, and forward-thinking governance.

Confirmed speakers and sessions so far include…

• Erika Eliasson-Norris CEO, Beyond Governance, Author and Governance Assessor to the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry. Erika will explore the governance professional’s shift from compliance enforcer to strategic leader, with practical insight on culture, integrity and accountability.
• David Hughes CBE, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges who will focus on recent policy updates in the FE sector and what these mean for college boards and governance professionals
• Cybersecurity and managing digital risk. Jisc will discuss the current threat landscape, what meaningful assurance looks like, and how governors can confidently challenge and support their organisation’s cyber strategy.
• Governance of Higher Education in FE. Gary Husband, Professor of Professional Education, University of Sunderland will share practical guidance for navigating the HE landscape within colleges.
• Lessons in leadership, culture and governance from Education and Training Collective. Learn from their journey to achieving Ofsted Outstanding and how strong leadership and effective governance drove sustained improvement.

A full programme will be available soon.

What did past delegates say?

The sessions were insightful, providing practical 'tips and tricks' and fresh perspectives on navigating complex governance challenges. The speakers were sector leaders who shared real-world examples and actionable takeaways, making every session highly engaging and relevant. Beyond the content, the opportunity to connect with fellow professionals was invaluable. Connecting with like-minded peers and exchanging ideas was a highlight.
Darran George, Weston College

The agenda items on this Conference were superb, a really good mix of information from External speakers, tips for the 'job' and helpful supportive sessions where we could compare notes and offer advice, also with handy tools on how to look after our mental health and make time for ourselves.
Allison Booth, Bradford College

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