As part of our own nod to National School Governors’ Awareness Day, we have been putting the spotlight on some of own governors to learn more about their motivation.
Rachel Beeken is business unit director, Unitised at PD Ports, and is in her fourth year on the Etc. board of governors.

“It means creating fabulous opportunities for the young people in our area,”
What is the best thing about being a governor?
Feeling like I’m part of a team that is helping and supporting the people in our communities.
What has been your proudest moment?
At our governor conference last year, we had a fantastic talk from some of our learners about their courses and an amazing performance from some other learners in the evening. I was blown away by the confidence, positivity, passion and talent that they all displayed and felt proud to be even a tiny part in supporting people like them to reach their potential.
How do you fit governorship around the demands of everyday life?
It can be difficult with a busy full-time job, but we’re always given plenty of notice of meetings and the packs to read and the governance team are very supportive, so I just have to make sure I get myself well organised!
What does the Etc. and its learners mean to you?
It means creating fabulous opportunities for the young people in our area to help them be the best they can be.