Governor bios
Find out more about who Derwen College’s governors are.
Our governors come from a range of backgrounds with different areas of expertise in education and industry.
They all have a shared aim to ensure that Derwen College continues to be a place of possibility where our students, who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, achieve what they want to do and challenge them to do more.
Ruth Court
I’ve spent over 30 years in education, from secondary teaching and accountancy training to executive leadership roles in legal training and higher education. What I value most is the dedication of colleagues who put students at the heart of everything we do – a commitment that led me to Derwen College.
My interest in becoming a governor was inspired by my mum, who served in the role, also at Derwen College, for nearly a decade. Seeing the impact she made gave me a clear understanding of how rewarding and influential the position can be. When the opportunity arose to join the board, it felt like the perfect fit.
Highlights so far include the graduation ceremony—a day filled with joy, pride, and celebration. Being a governor is a chance to make a real difference, share expertise, and learn.
If you’re considering the role of governor, expect to gain insight into the transformative power of specialist further education and its impact on lives.
Vicki Cox
I’m a retired teacher with a background in maths and IT, having taught in primary and secondary schools, and lectured at FE colleges. I also worked in industry as a systems analyst. Locally, I’m active in voluntary groups including the NSPCC and Oswestry Show.
I became a governor to maintain a link with education and contribute to a college I’ve admired for many years. As a local, I hoped my skills and experience could support Derwen College’s mission. Memorable moments include graduation ceremonies, Duke of Edinburgh award presentations, and the College’s wonderful shows and pantomimes.
Being a governor has been a fantastic learning experience, giving me a deeper understanding of life in a specialist college. For anyone considering the governor role, it’s incredibly rewarding – be prepared to learn a lot and also to enjoy being part of a dedicated, passionate team.
Paul Crosby
I worked as a Chartered Engineer for a multinational company, gaining extensive experience in project management. Outside work, I supported young people through the Air Cadets and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, and enjoyed gliding as a licensed pilot.
I project-managed the fundraising for the restoration of Oswestry Parish Church. After early retirement, I focused on fundraising for Derwen College, raising £3.2 million for major projects – a source of great personal satisfaction. Becoming a governor was a natural step to continue supporting a college that had given me so much pleasure.
The most rewarding part of being a governor has been to see learners develop skills that truly make Derwen “A Place of Possibility.” More recently, resuming my fundraising role and securing £330,000 for the PMLD Nurture development was a highlight.
If you have skills to offer as a governor at Derwen College, apply – you’ll find the experience deeply fulfilling and your efforts repaid many times over.
K Kimber
I’ve spent my career in education: 25 years in sixth form and Further Education (FE) colleges, including nine as principal, followed by part-time roles as FE Adviser, Beacon Awards Assessor, Further Education Funding Council inspector, trustee of Treloar College & School, and Bishops’ Adviser for the Church of England.
I co-authored Whole People Matter, promoting values and high-quality learning. Actively involved in my local community, I also serve as a lay worship leader.
I became a Derwen College governor after being recommended by Treloar College’s CEO. My previous experience supporting students with SEND was deeply rewarding and taught me a lot.
Memorable moments at Derwen College include seeing students achieve beyond expectations – completing DofE expeditions, cooking meals independently, performing on stage, and advocating through the Student Council.
Being a governor means learning constantly, sharing fun moments with students, and contributing to a first-class organisation. If you’re considering the role, expect to learn, give back, and become passionate about what people with SEND need and deserve.
Liz Leigh
I am a qualified nurse with 35 years experience, mainly in children’s community nursing, and later managing a hospice for children and young people.
I first encountered Derwen College during a holiday in 2015 and was impressed by the college’s ethos and opportunities for young people with learning disabilities.
After retiring in 2019 and moving to Powys, I saw an advert for governors and applied. Having worked closely with children with complex needs, I understood the vital role of colleges like Derwen.
My most memorable experiences as a governor always involve students – whether performing in shows, taking part in Student Council meetings, or competing in events. Being a governor is hugely rewarding; it allows me to use my experience to support others and witness the incredible growth of students and staff.
Derwen is inspiring – this role offers the chance to make a real difference.
Dan Owen
I’m Managing Director of a mental health training company in Wrexham, working with clinicians and academic partners to help people build a life worth living.
Alongside this, I’m involved in retail and hospitality ventures, giving me a broad perspective on business and community engagement. I live near Derwen College with my family.
I became a governor to contribute to an organisation that’s a cornerstone of our community. Derwen College’s mission to help students achieve beyond expectations resonates strongly with my professional work, and I felt my experience in training and business could add value.
Memorable moments include attending Student Council meetings and College events like the annual Fete and Christmas Fayre.
Being a governor brings pride and insight into the impact of strategic decisions. You don’t need to come from a specific background. The strength of the board lies in its diversity, with members bringing expertise from business, care, and education, united by its shared commitment to the College’s values and mission.
If you’re considering the governor role, expect to learn, contribute, and make a real difference.