for apprentices

next generation of diverse board talent

sign up as an apprentice

The programme for apprentices

What is involved for apprentices?

You are invited to join a network of highly talented individuals who have little to no board experience but who demonstrate the potential to be innovative, thoughtful and influential non-profit board members. If invited to join a university board via GAP, you will have the opportunity to shadow that board for one academic year as a non-voting observer. You will also have a dedicated mentor on the board who will oversee your time there. Through this experience, you will gain valuable insights into governance, and contextual knowledge that will form a good foundation for future non-executive appointments.

Outcomes

Develop your understanding of non-profit governance

You will begin to develop the skills, networks and experience to successfully apply for board roles in the future. All apprentices will be assigned a mentor on the board and be given a reference at the end of the year from the host university board.

Learn about a new sector

You will have the opportunity to learn about new business models, a new sector and corporate governance best practice.

Develop your leadership skills

By developing your non-executive expertise and expanding your network across sectors, you will learn how to be effective in a different leadership context.

Be part of the change

This is an opportunity to be part of a network of people who will represent the future of higher education board diversity. Your contribution and fresh perspectives could help shape the future of university governance. If you are passionate about education this is an opportuntity to apply your professional experience to supporting the UK's next generation.

Apprentices timeline

January - March

Launch: Perrett Laver engagement with higher education Host Boards, preparing them for the programme.

April - May

Building the network: Perrett Laver builds a network of potential apprentices. Potential apprentices will fill in a standardised application form for upcoming vacanices.

June - July

Appointments made: Host Boards will invite applications from our network. Apprentices will apply for roles. The Host Board will invite 2 to 3 Apprentices to interview.

August

Preparing apprentices: you will be assigned a mentor on the Board and provided with a sector guide. Your Host Board will conduct relevant inductions.

September onwards

Apprentices join: all selected apprentices will join from the start of the next academic year 2021.

September 2022

Apprenticeships conclude: apprentices recieve a reference from their Host Board to include in their CV and future board applications. Apprentices remain part of the GAP network and alumni.

GAP logo white

How to become an apprentice

We welcome applications from people of all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds; from all faiths and beliefs; from every part of the country; who identify as any sexuality and/or gender; with any impairment; and regardless of age or marital status. We seek people with a range of experiences and skills. To register as a potential Apprentice please fill in the registration form. Or for more information please get in touch with the Perrett Laver team.

sign up as a potential apprentice

View current apprentice opportunities

If you have registered as a potential apprentice via Perrett Laver then please check our listings and decide which board apprenticeships to apply for. For a list of all current vacancies, please click on the link below.

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