Corporates governance arrangements at Plymouth College of Art set and monitor the organisation’s strategy and objectives. The governing body aim is to give assurance and improve performance within the organisation by strategically focussing on clear and robust systems and control processes.

The governors are responsible for corporate governance which includes the leadership, direction and control of the organisation, with the aim of improving the efficiency and effectiveness within the organisation through the relationship with management and the organisation stakeholders and the pursuit of objectives in the interests of the organisation and its stakeholders.

Members of the Corporation board

The governing body discharges its responsibilities of the duty of care by ensuring that the public funds received are spent for the intended purposes and that value for money is obtained.

Risk management is an integral part of any decision made by the governing body. The Audit Committee monitors progress and advises the governing body regarding controls on risk management.

The Corporation has a structure of 5 Committees and 1 Working Groups to undertake strategic business control and monitoring:

• Finance and General Purpose Committee
• Audit Committee Curriculum and Quality Committee
• Search Committee
• Remuneration and Employment Committee
• Capital Build Working Group

Within each Committee or Working Group specialist members (Independent Committee Members) join the governors to provide professional advice and guidance. The Corporation meeting schedule ensures that the Committees and Corporation are able to deliver their responsibilities and business in a timely manner, and to meet external bodies’ requirements.

Governors are recruited taking into account, wherever possible, equality and diversity issues. In particular, the Search Committee consider individual’s skills and experience to make certain there is a fit with the mission, vision and objectives of the College. High standards of ethical, personal and corporate conduct are expected from members, in accordance with the Standards in Public Life, commonly referred to as the ‘Nolan’ principles. All governors are encouraged to participate in development and training programmes, briefings, seminars and workshops. Members regularly receive routine circulations of a range of printed information and briefing material.