SWRAC Advisory Board Expertise in Governing & Support

The SWRAC Advisory Board has established stronger Governance with sharper and more purposeful Board arrangements.

The SWRAC Advisory Board is characterised by

  • A small committed Board appointed for their skills and experience
  • Clear Terms of Reference identifying the advisory nature of the Board and its responsibility for advising the company owners (the ultimate decision makers)
  • A schedule of meetings with pre-agreed agenda, written reports and timely minutes capturing key discussion and agreed actions
  • A supportive, open and, where necessary, challenging culture focussed on the achievement of aspirational aims and objectives
  • Conduct which stands up to scrutiny and sets a tone for the organisation as a whole

Board Objectives

  • Ensuring that there is a clear Organisational Vison
  • Scrutinising and Challenging Performance
  • Ensuring that the organisation is in good financial health
  • Ensuring high-quality teaching and learning
  • Considering and taking account of stakeholder views
  • Monitoring the effectiveness of key policies including:
    • Safeguarding & Prevent
    • Health & Safety
  • Ensuring effective staff performance management
  • Challenge, support and hold to account the Leadership & Senior Management Team
  • Provide Independent Scrutiny of SWRAC activities
  • Ensure Governing members are knowledgeable

Advisory Board Members

Rosie Knapper

I joined the SWRAC Advisory Board in July 2022 which I am proud to Chair. For the past 20 years I have worked in the education sector, previously for Dorset Council where I was responsible for educational commissioning and for the quality and breadth of education for 16-18 year olds and adult education. I currently work with Dorset Chamber on the Department for Education’s Local Skills Improvement Plan. I am passionate about supporting all young people to achieve their full potential and make good choices for their futures. I am also the safeguarding governor at a local secondary school.

Stephen Young

I am proud and honoured to be a Governor at SWRAC. I believe my service in the Armed Forces and the experience I have gained working with vulnerable persons in the community is useful helping the organisation achieving its goals. I have run my own business for many years in the Engineering sector and I am a passionate supporter of good causes where I am a Patron and Ambassador for Charities in Dorset. In 2019 I became one of the founding Directors of Helping Homeless Veterans UK and was recently appointed as President of Tourism and Leisure in the Commonwealth Business Club promoting trade within the Commonwealth Countries.

Karen Dyke

I became a member of the SWRAC Advisory Board in October 2021 and am delighted to be able to support its Governance activities. After an initial career in finance, I then moved into teaching and education management where I have been for over 30 years. During this time, as well as working particularly closely with SEND provision, I also had the privilege of leading many extra curricula, high-adventure, survival trips around the world for students of all ages and abilities. I feel passionate about supporting the opportunities offered to young people, which can allow them to develop and achieve ambitious outcomes in both life and work. As such, I hold similar advisory roles for other organisations, where I aim to support their vision, growth and quality of provision. So, I am honoured to be part of the highly dedicated team at SWRAC to support the excellent provision and opportunities they offer their learners.

Martin Vowles

I joined the SWRAC Advisory Board in July 2017. I have worked in the education and training sector since 1984 and was Business Development Director of a Dorset based provider of independent careers guidance for young people and adults for 9 years until May 2017. I now work on a freelance basis to provide support to careers guidance companies and education and training providers in business development, funding applications and partnership working. I have also been Vice-Chair of Governors at a local school for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities since October 2007. I am a firm believer that all young people should be given the best chance to succeed in life and am committed to pursuing that goal in my role with SWRAC. I am a member of the Career Development Institute and the National Governance Association.

Paul Barran

In early 2024, I was invited to join the Advisory Board of SWRAC, following my involvement with the organisation through my businesses. Witnessing the positive impact we’ve had on young people’s lives inspired me to accept this opportunity. I am excited to contribute to shaping more futures, collaborating with other employers to create the best pathways for students—much like how I build and lead my teams. With a background in the military and personal experience in rehabilitation, I deeply understand the vital role SWRAC plays. Although new to this type of role, I am committed to learning quickly and working with transparency and open communication.