How is the role of student governor understood in further education colleges in the UK?

The appointment of student governors to the governing board is mandatory in further education (FE) colleges across UK. There is, however, confusion and lack clarity over role governor, little empirical research, especially involving direct observation, has been undertaken which sheds light on this. This paper examines how governor understood by boards it enacted practice. Over one calendar year, we observed video/audio-recorded meetings eight FE UK, two each UK country (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales). In addition, interviewed key actors spoke governors. Our findings reveal a understanding about creates tension between acting an advisory capacity as part body, representing learner voice. We conclude with recommendations for aimed at facilitating meaningful engagement processes.