Last year I reflected on how observing governance can help demystify to how we make decisions in our major committees and boards, as well as provide valuable development opportunities for colleagues. Inspired by successful observer schemes in other settings, we have now taken the next step in developing a formal Governance Observer Scheme at Bath.<\/p>\n
Our committees and boards play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of the University, overseeing key risks and opportunities, and ensuring we make informed decisions in the best interests of our community. However, for many colleagues these processes may feel remote or unfamiliar. By opening up these meetings, we hope to increase understanding of and confidence in how our governance works.<\/p>\n
Over the 2026\/27 academic year, we\u2019ll pilot the scheme, allowing colleagues to observe meetings of the University\u2019s central governance committees and boards, gaining first-hand insight into how decisions are discussed and made. This includes seeing the papers that form the basis of these discussions, and how the discussions (and in particular the challenges that are raised) are navigated.<\/p>\n
Beyond increasing understanding of our governance processes, we hope the scheme will support two distinct groups.<\/p>\n
First, it will provide an opportunity for colleagues who regularly prepare papers for these committees and boards to see governance from the other side of the table, providing valuable insight and helping colleagues understand how members engage with information, seek assurance and approach decisions.<\/p>\n
Second, it will support colleagues who may be interested in joining a committee or board in the future, but are unsure or don't yet feel equipped to apply. Observing a meeting can help build confidence, develop understanding of meeting dynamics, and provide a clearer picture of what membership involves.<\/p>\n
The pilot will cover Council, Senate, the University Executive Board (UEB) and their direct sub-committees and boards, with up to two observer places available at each eligible meeting. These observer places are open to all University staff and Students\u2019 Union Sabbatical Officers.<\/p>\n
In allocating places, the Governance Team will seek to ensure equitable access across the University, and we encourage participation from colleagues who are currently underrepresented in our governance structures. Participants will be invited to share feedback on their experience, and their insights will help us identify opportunities to strengthen both the observer scheme itself and wider governance practices.<\/p>\n
Perhaps most importantly, I hope the initiative will help reinforce a simple principle: governance should not feel mysterious or hidden. While some discussions will always require appropriate confidentiality, we should strive to be as open as possible and only be as closed as necessary.<\/p>\n
My hope is that greater understanding of how decisions are made can help build confidence and trust, strengthen engagement, and create opportunities for colleagues to contribute themselves.<\/p>\n
Expressions of interest for the 2026\/27 pilot are now open. If you are curious about how our governance processes work, interested in developing your understanding of committee decision-making, or considering a future governance role, please do think about applying.<\/p>\n