Building Resilience as a Professional Governance Student

Professional study can be incredibly rewarding, but it also brings real challenges, from managing time effectively to balancing work, life and personal commitments. To support our students in navigating these demands, KCB is kicking off its Student Wellbeing Programme on 8 September 2026, designed to promote healthy study habits, build confidence and strengthen emotional resilience throughout the qualification journey.

As part of this programme, KCB will deliver a three‑part Student Wellbeing Webinar Series, created specifically for CGIUKI students and delivered in partnership with Heather Connery, an accredited coach and therapist specialising in Gestalt, counselling, resilience and holistic wellbeing. Heather brings extensive experience of balancing professional study with work and life, offering students practical strategies grounded in real‑world experience.

These webinars blend effective study planning, time management techniques, and wellbeing support, helping students study successfully without compromising their mental or emotional health.

Webinar 1: The Resilient Professional Governance Student — Balancing Study, Work and Life

8 September 2026

12:00–12:45 BST

Presented by Heather Connery


The first session in the series focuses on one of the most common challenges students face: how to balance professional study with work, family and personal commitments. This webinar helps students build the foundations for success from the very start of their studies.

What students will learn

  • Realistic study planning and time management
  • Managing expectations and avoiding perfectionism
  • Navigating emotional demands
  • Building sustainable study habits

This session is ideal for new students beginning their qualification, returning students looking to reset their approach, and anyone seeking a healthier, more balanced way to manage their study workload.

The Student Wellbeing Webinar Series forms a core part of KCB’s student support, offering structured guidance at key points in the academic year. While this webinar is designed with Qualifying Programme students in mind, the themes of balance, resilience and healthy study habits are highly relevant to MSc Governance and Certificate students too. All students juggling professional study alongside work and personal commitments will benefit from the practical strategies, wellbeing tools and confidence‑building approaches explored throughout the series.

What’s coming up next?

The full three‑part series includes:

The Resilient Professional Governance Student: Balancing Study, Work and Life

Date: 8 September 2026, 12:00 – 12:45 BST

    The Mid-Programme Challenge: Managing Workload, Confidence and Wellbeing

    Date: 6 October 2026, 12:00 – 12:45 BST

      1. Understanding and Managing Anxiety for CGIUKI Examinations

      Date: 3 November 2026, 12:00 – 12:45 GMT

      Register for all three of our webinars now to avoid missing out on key insights.

      15 Days left to apply for the BEGA x KCB Bursary – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

      There are now 15 days left to apply for the BEGA x KCB MSc Governance Bursary, a fully funded opportunity for one aspiring governance professional to join the MSc Governance programme starting October 2026. If you’ve been considering postgraduate study in governance, or you’re looking for a way to take the next step in your career, this bursary could be the perfect route forward.

      With the deadline approaching, here’s everything you need to know about how to apply, who is eligible, and what to expect throughout the process.

      How to apply for the BEGA x KCB Bursary  

      Applying is simple, straightforward and designed to give every eligible candidate a fair chance to demonstrate their potential.

      1. Submit your CV and Personal Statement (by 18 August)

      Your initial application consists of two documents:

      • Your CV
      • A 500–750 word personal statement

      These should be emailed to Sophie (sophie@kcbglobal.net) by 18 August. Your personal statement should explain your interest in governance, your career goals, and why the MSc Governance would support your development.

      Once your email is received, you’ll receive a confirmation message so you know your application is safely logged.

      2. Receive your short‑essay instructions (by 25 August)

      By 25 August, eligible applicants will receive an email inviting them to complete a short written task. This is a 300–500 word essay designed to assess your understanding of governance and your ability to communicate ideas clearly.

      You will have one week to complete this task, with a deadline of 2 September.

      3. Attend a virtual interview (week commencing 15 September)

      Applicants who progress past the essay stage will be invited to a virtual interview. This is your opportunity to discuss your interest in governance, your professional experience, and your motivation for joining the MSc Governance.

      Interviews will take place during the week starting 15 September.

      4. Receive your final outcome

      All applicants will be contacted by the end of September with the outcome of their application. The successful candidate will be awarded the bursary and offered a fully funded place on the MSc Governance.

      5. Begin your MSc Governance journey

      The bursary recipient will join the new cohort when teaching begins on Wednesday 14 October 2026.

      Am I able to apply for the Bursary?

      Eligible applications must meet the requirements below:

      • Identify as being from a Black or Black-heritage background, in line with the bursary’s aim to support greater representation within the governance profession
      • Must be based in the UK for the duration of the programme
      • Applicants from all sectors are welcome; however, priority will be given to those working in contexts where employer sponsorships for postgraduate study is not typically available, including the non-profit, charity and voluntary sectors
      • Applicants must meet the standard academic and English-language entry requirements
      • Applicants must be able to commit to study part-time over two years
      • General education entry requirement is a minimum of a 2:2 Bachelor’s degree, or international equivalent in any discipline, or those who have achieved Affiliate status of the CGIUKI through an assessed programme of study with 5 years relevant work experience

      Why You Should Apply

      With only 15 days left, now is the ideal moment to take action. The BEGA x KCB Bursary offers:

      • A fully funded MSc Governance qualification
      • A pathway to GradCG professional status
      • Access to expert teaching, small cohort learning and personalised academic support
      • A chance to deepen your governance expertise and strengthen your career prospects
      • An opportunity to join a profession where representation truly matters

      If you’re ready to invest in your future and contribute to stronger, more accountable organisations, this bursary could be the opportunity that changes your career trajectory.

      Why Should I Apply for the BEGA x KCB MSc Governance Bursary?

      Governance is the foundation of trust. When organisations operate with clear structures and transparent decision‑making, stakeholders feel confident that leaders are acting responsibly. Strong governance protects reputation, strengthens relationships and ensures that organisations remain resilient in times of change.

      It is also a strategic discipline. Effective governance helps organisations anticipate risks, seize opportunities and align their operations with long‑term goals. As regulatory environments evolve and expectations around accountability increase, governance professionals play a central role in shaping organisational strategy and supporting leadership teams.

      Whether you work in the charity sector, corporate governance, education, compliance or public administration, governance expertise is becoming essential. Organisations need people who can navigate complexity, provide assurance and support boards in making informed, ethical decisions.

      For aspiring governance professionals, gaining a recognised qualification can be transformative. It builds confidence, deepens expertise and opens doors to roles where you can make a meaningful impact. This is where the MSc Governance comes in: a programme designed to equip future governance leaders with the knowledge, skills and professional recognition needed to excel.

      The value of the MSc Governance

      The MSc Governance offers a powerful combination of academic depth and professional relevance. Delivered part‑time over two years, the programme is designed for working professionals who want to build specialist knowledge without stepping away from their careers. Weekly live online sessions allow students to engage with expert tutors, explore real‑world governance challenges and apply learning directly to their roles.

      One of the programme’s greatest strengths is its partnership with the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (CGIUKI) and the University of Essex. This collaboration ensures that students graduate with both a university‑accredited master’s degree and GradCG status, creating a clear pathway toward chartered governance recognition. For employers, this combination signals that graduates have both the theoretical understanding and practical capability to operate confidently in governance roles.

      Students also benefit from small cohort sizes (limited to 25 students per cohort), personalised academic support and the opportunity to tailor assignments to their sector or area of interest. Whether you aspire to work in corporate governance, charity governance, board support, compliance or risk management, the MSc Governance provides the foundation needed to progress.

      Why applying for the bursary is a valuable opportunity

      For Black and Black‑heritage professionals, the BEGA x KCB MSc Governance Bursary offers a fully funded route into this influential profession. The bursary exists to widen access to governance education and ensure that talented individuals who may face barriers to postgraduate study have a clear pathway into the field.

      Applying for the bursary is a chance to invest in your future without the financial pressure of tuition fees. It is an opportunity to gain a respected qualification, expand your professional network and position yourself for long‑term career progression. With governance roles growing across every sector, this bursary provides a meaningful step forward for those ready to deepen their expertise and contribute to more accountable, inclusive organisations.

      Applications are open until 18 August 2026. Read the full entry criteria and application details below.

      Why Governance Matters, and how the MSc Governance Helps Shape Future Leaders

      Good governance is the backbone of every successful organisation. Whether in the corporate sector, public institutions, charities, or fast‑growing start‑ups, governance provides the clarity, accountability and strategic direction that enable organisations to thrive. It is the framework that ensures decisions are made responsibly, risks are managed effectively, and stakeholders are treated fairly. In a world where expectations of transparency and ethical leadership continue to rise, governance is no longer a specialist concern, it is a fundamental requirement for organisational resilience and long‑term success.

      Governance as a driver of trust and accountability

      At its core, governance is about trust. When organisations operate with clear structures, defined responsibilities and transparent decision‑making, stakeholders gain confidence in the organisation’s ability to act responsibly. Good governance protects reputation, strengthens relationships and creates the conditions for sustainable growth.

      Governance as a strategic discipline

      Governance is not simply about compliance, it is a strategic discipline. Effective governance enables organisations to anticipate risks, seize opportunities and align their operations with long‑term goals. It supports boards and senior leaders in making informed decisions, encourages constructive challenge, and ensures that organisational culture reflects the values and behaviours needed for success.

      As organisations face increasing complexity with digital transformations, environmental responsibilities, shifting regulatory landscapes and evolving stakeholder expectations, the need for governance professionals with deep expertise has never been greater. These professionals play a critical role in shaping organisational strategy, supporting leadership, and ensuring that governance structures evolve in step with the world around them.

      The value of the MSc Governance

      The MSc Governance is designed for individuals who want to build or deepen their expertise in this vital discipline. Delivered part‑time over two years, the programme combines academic rigour with practical application, giving students the tools to understand governance in context and apply it confidently in their professional roles.

      Students explore key areas such as organisational structures, board dynamics, risk management, ethics, regulatory frameworks and strategic decision‑making. Through assignments and the final Focused Governance Report, they tailor their learning to the sectors and challenges most relevant to their career goals.

      One of the programme’s greatest strengths is its blend of professional and academic expertise. Delivered in collaboration with the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (CGIUKI) and the University of Essex, the MSc provides both a recognised academic qualification and a pathway to professional status. Graduates earn GradCG status, with the opportunity to progress to full chartered status as their career develops.

      The programme is intentionally designed for working professionals. Weekly live online sessions, supported by structured independent study, allow students to balance learning with work and personal commitments. With small cohort sizes and personalised academic support, students benefit from a collaborative learning environment that encourages discussion, reflection and real‑world application.

      If you would like to apply for the MSc, please contact our Programme Manager, Lauren Devine.

      The BEGA x KCB Bursary

      To support greater representation within the governance profession, KCB and BEGA are offering a fully funded bursary place for one aspiring governance professional from a Black or Black‑heritage background. The bursary covers full tuition for the MSc Governance and provides a structured, supportive entry route into the programme. Applications are open until 18 August 2026, with full details available here.

      If you would like more information about the Bursary, please contact Sophie Blauth.

      Meet our Tutor: Richard Whitmill

      Having a tutor you can trust, who is approachable and genuinely invested in your success, is one of the most important factors students consider when choosing where to study governance. At KCB, we are proud of our tutors and the consistently high‑quality learning experience they deliver across all our programmes.

      MSc Governance (Financial Analysis & Decision Making) and Qualifying Programme (Interpreting Financial & Accounting Information) Tutor, Richard Whitmill, is one of KCB’s most respected tutors and in-demand tutors. He is widely recognised for his clear, comprehensive teaching style, his ability to simplify complex financial concepts, and the confidence he instils in students preparing for CGIUKI Qualifying Programme Finance module.

      Richard is a Chartered Company Secretary and Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland, bringing over 15 years of hands‑on experience within the voluntary and not‑for‑profit sector. His career spans roles as a trustee, volunteer and employee, giving him a deep, practical understanding of governance, financial oversight and organisational accountability, insights he brings directly into the classroom.

      With a strong academic track record, Richard completed the CGI Qualifying Programme between 2022 and 2025, earning the John Phillips Memorial Prize (2024/25) for highest overall performance after achieving six distinctions. He also received the AW Goodbody Award for his Interpreting Financial and Accounting Information paper, scoring an exceptional 95%.

      Richard Whitmill receiving the John Phillips Memorial Prize 2024/25 from Linda Ford, CEO of Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland and Shirley Creed, Master Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. Photo courtesy of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators.

      Today, Richard teaches on both the Qualifying Programme and MSc Governance programmes, supporting students at every stage, from building foundational financial literacy to developing advanced analytical and decision‑making skills. His sessions are known for being engaging, practical and rooted in real‑world governance challenges, making him a standout tutor for students seeking confidence, clarity and exam success.

      Read some of Richard’s tutor feedback

      Richard has been utterly brilliant. He has made a confusing and daunting subject easy to understand and I feel confident in my learning.

      Richard is a natural. So down to earth and personable… Richard is so knowledgeable on this module, and the variety and interaction during the sessions always kept the momentum.

      Our tutor is extremely approachable and very patient. He is always happy to answer questions and responds quickly to written communications.

      Richard has been fantastic and has brought the textbook to life with his real life examples – it’s refreshing to have someone who is not just reading from the prepared slides.

      At last a tutor that can keep me engaged. Richard is amazing!

      Want to be taught by Richard?

      If you are about to undertake the Qualifying Programme Interpreting Financial and Accounting Information Module, you can pick Richard as your Tutor, in either the Weekly classes, or as your Tutor for Flexible+ and Flexible.

      Richard is also teaching on our MSc Governance. Applications are now open for our October 2026 cohort. Learn more here.

      KCB Students at the 2026 Annual CGIUKI Governance Conference

      From 7–8 July 2026, KCB was delighted to welcome our MSc Governance students to the KCB Lounge at the Annual CGIUKI Governance Conference in London. For many of them, this was the first time meeting their cohort in person after studying online together since February, a chance to turn familiar names on a screen into real conversations, shared experiences, and genuine connections.

      The conference provided a vibrant backdrop for their first face‑to‑face gathering. Across two days, students immersed themselves in the energy of the governance community, explored the exhibition hall, and engaged with industry professionals, alumni, and fellow delegates. The KCB Lounge quickly became a hub of discussion, curiosity, and collaboration.

      One of the highlights of their visit was the Simulation Strategy session, where students worked in teams to analyse a governance scenario and present their recommendations back to the ‘Board’ and ‘Chair’. Watching them collaborate so naturally by drawing on their modules, professional backgrounds, and individual strengths, was a powerful reminder of how quickly they have grown as governance practitioners. Their presentations were thoughtful, confident, and clearly rooted in the learning they’ve been developing over the past five months.

      Attending the CGIUKI Governance Conference is an integral part of the MSc Governance experience because it connects academic learning with the realities of the profession. The conference gives students direct access to current governance debates, emerging trends, and the voices shaping the future of the field. Being in the room with experienced practitioners, board members, and industry leaders helps students see how the concepts they study translate into real organisational challenges and decisions. It also strengthens their professional identity: meeting peers, networking with employers, and engaging in live discussions builds confidence and reinforces the practical relevance of their studies. For many, it marks the moment the MSc shifts from an online programme to a lived professional journey.

      The conference also gave us the wonderful opportunity to reconnect with previous KCB students, many of whom stopped by the Lounge to share updates on their careers and reflect on how the MSc has shaped their professional journeys. Their enthusiasm and continued engagement with the KCB community made the event feel even more special.

      We were equally pleased to meet prospective students who visited the Lounge to learn more about our programmes, ask questions, and hear directly from current students and our Tutors.

      Thank you to The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland for welcoming our students and providing a valuable space for learning and connection.

      The Benefits of our Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance  

      If you’re looking for a foundation-level governance qualification, our Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance is an excellent starting point. This programme is ideal for students who are working alongside their studies, and want a flexible, structured route into the governance and compliance profession.

      The Certificate provides a direct pathway into further professional qualifications, including the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme and our MSc Governance, making it a strong option for those planning long‑term career progression in governance, compliance, risk or organisational leadership.

      Across the 9‑month course, students gain both the core knowledge and practical understanding of key areas within Corporate Compliance & Governance. The curriculum is designed to build confidence, enhance employability, and develop transferable skills that are valued across corporate, public and not‑for‑profit sectors.

      Our students consistently give highly rated feedback, noting that they enjoy the course structure, find the study text clear and accessible, and consider the programme excellent value for money. We pride ourselves on delivering high‑quality governance education, and we are delighted that students recognise the expertise of our Tutors and the strength of our learning resources.

      Below, you can read some of our recent student feedback and hear directly from those who have completed the Certificate.

      • Overall feel well supported so far and am enjoying the course very much!
      • I have learned so much on this module, and I had all the support I needed from Helen, and the rest of the team.
      • The live online classes helped me a lot in understanding the study material. The tutor was excellent at explaining not only the theory but also providing many real-life examples, which were very useful and made the learning experience much more practical and engaging.
      • Susan really went out of her way to provide additional information and make sure that all students’ questions were answered. Thank you!
      • The online teaching, advanced scheduling and receiving the learning materials very early in the course allowed me to study within the confines of my day-to-day role and normal home life. I particularly enjoyed workshops with real life case studies and break out sessions with other students.
      • I am more confident in supporting my clients through corporate governance events, and better able to understand the demands of the Company Secretaries I work closely with.
      • Overall, I found the course flexible and easy to follow. It’s been incredibly useful for my career, and I would recommend this course to others. A special thank you to Helen for your support over the last year.
      • My feeling is that KCB provides excellent value for money and everyone at College has been very supportive with the students.

      Applications are open for the October 2026 cohort, so if you are interested in joining, please do register via our website, or reach out to our Programme Manager Lauren if you would like more information.

      Introducing KCB’s New Student Wellbeing Programme

      For over 40 years, KCB has supported students through the challenges of the CGIUKI examinations. Of course, the route to becoming a Chartered Governance Professional is not easy, as it must ensure that those who achieve chartered status possess the technical knowledge required across a range of core disciplines. The high standard safeguards the credibility of the profession gives employers and stakeholders confidence in those who qualify. As a result, the study journey is demanding. CGIUKI recommends approximately 200 hours of study for each module. This includes the requirement to master the significant volume of material in the study text. For many students who have not studied for a number of years, they must readjust to the demands of study, whilst also adapting to the new demands of the online examination process.  Alongside their studies, most students are balancing these demands with the responsibilities of work and family

      As the leading tuition provider for CGIUKI qualifications, chosen by more than half of all students using a provider, KCB recognises these challenges and continues to develop new initiatives and support services to meet the evolving needs of our students. In recent years, we have introduced:

      • our 40:20:40 approach to examination preparation, helping students make the most effective use of their study time;
      • our Flexible Study programmes, enabling students to balance their studies with other commitments; and
      • the KCB Companion Examination Practice Tool, providing students with additional opportunities to develop their examination technique and build confidence.

      However, one issue that continues to emerge is the growing pressure on student wellbeing. We are seeing increasing levels of examination anxiety, declining confidence, guilt about sacrificing time with family while studying, and an overwhelming sense of “trying to hold everything together.”

      Neill McWilliams, Programmes Leader at KCB, explains: “It’s in the nature of governance professionals to strive for excellence, and the way they approach their examinations is no different. This often creates unnecessary pressure, leading to increased stress that can affect not only their ability to study effectively, but also their performance in the workplace and family life.”

      To provide further support to students, in September 2026, KCB is launching its Student Wellbeing Programme, designed to build confidence, promote a healthy perspective on studying and examinations, and equip students with the practical strategies they need to study effectively without compromising their wellbeing.

      As part of the programme, KCB will deliver a three-part Student Wellbeing Webinar Series, designed specifically for CGIUKI students and presented in partnership with Heather Connery, an accredited coach and therapist, drawing on Gestalt, counselling, resilience and holistic wellbeing modalities, who has significant experience of balancing the demands of professional study. These sessions will blend practical study guidance with genuine wellbeing support. The webinars comprise the following:

      1. The Resilient Professional Governance Student: Balancing Study, Work and Life

      Date: 8 September 2026

      Register here

      This session helps students lay the foundations for success from the outset of their studies. It explores realistic approaches to study planning and time management, managing expectations and navigating the emotional demands of balancing professional study with work and personal commitments.

      2. The Mid-Programme Challenge: Managing Workload, Confidence and Wellbeing

      Date: 6 October 2026

      Register here

      For many students, this is the stage where confidence begins to falter. The initial momentum can give way to feelings of being overwhelmed, self-doubt and declining motivation. This webinar focuses on helping students regain control, rebuild confidence and momentum, and manage the guilt and pressure that often arise midway through their studies.

      3. Understanding and Managing Anxiety for CGIUKI Examinations

      Date: 3 November 2026

      Register here

      Examination anxiety affects many students and can have a significant impact on both wellbeing and performance. This session equips students with practical techniques to manage anxiety, stay focused under pressure, and approach the exam day with confidence, clarity and a positive mindset.

      Alongside the webinar series, KCB is developing a dedicated counselling support pathway to ensure that students who require more personalised support can access professional guidance tailored to their individual needs.

      We want to open this discussion to the wider governance community of tutors, students, employers, and professional bodies.

      To that end, we would love to see your thoughts on LinkedIn and to hear from you. What did you find most challenging about balancing study with work and personal commitments, and what advice would you share with other students?

      Governance‑Focused Employer Spotlight: How Flex Legal Is Developing Future Governance Talent

      Flex Legal launched their award‑winning Company Secretary Trainee Scheme in 2024. The scheme supports aspiring governance professionals through a competitive assessment process, after which successful candidates are employed by Flex Legal and seconded into an in‑house governance team for two years. During this time, trainees study for their CGI Qualifying Programme modules with KCB as their education provider.

      Trainees work day‑to‑day within their host organisations, gaining hands‑on experience in real governance environments. Current host companies include National Grid, NatWest, Centrica and others.

      KCB is proud to partner with Flex Legal to deliver the academic element of the scheme, supporting trainees as they begin their governance careers.

      As the first interview in our Governance-Focused Employer Spotlight, we were thrilled to speak with Ellie Murray-McNeive, Head of Talent at Flex Legal. Ellie has lead their Learning & Development (L&D) on the trainee schemes for nearly three years.

      1. How does Flex Legal prepare trainees for working in governance environments, whether through training, mentoring, exposure to different teams, or structured development?

      Flex runs a social mobility scheme that places Co Sec trainees on in-house secondments within top governance teams at impressive companies such as NatWest, Ford, and The Crown Estate. Legal and Co Sec trainees join either an autumn or spring cohort, kickstarting their journey with a three-week, in-person ‘Readiness Programme’ designed to develop the skills and knowledge needed for success. Across their two-year secondments, trainees study Part One of the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme through KCB. They also benefit from coaching, study sessions, and a comprehensive cross-cohort Learning and Development (L&D) programme, alongside ample opportunities to network within their host companies and with fellow trainees.

      2. Beyond their academic studies, what further L&D would trainees expect?

      We collaborate with a fantastic network of Company Secretaries, governance teams, and social mobility advocates who generously volunteer their time to develop our trainees. Our cohorts have recently benefited from insightful sessions led by industry experts, including:

      • Amina Rasool (Co Sec at Ninety One) on Corporate Governance
      • Kako Mavalla (Governance for Good) on board minute writing
      • Mark Jenkins (Co Sec at Halma) on Boardroom Dynamics
      • Kerry Round and Jane Powell (Round Governance) on exam technique and key skills for successful juniors
      • Thelma Freeman (Deputy Co Sec at Nationwide) on communicating effectively with senior managers within a Co Sec team

      3. Across the organisations you work with, what skills, behaviours, or mindsets tend to help early-career professionals succeed in governance roles?

      A commercial mindset is hugely important; successful future trainees are genuinely interested in the financial and operational workings of companies and are motivated to see ‘behind the curtain’ of Board-level decisions. Resilience is another vital trait, as juggling professional studies alongside a full-time role requires determination and a strong work ethic. Finally, excellent communication skills and the ability to manage relationships effectively are absolutely crucial for any future Company Secretary.

      4. How do junior colleagues typically contribute to governance when they join these in-house teams, and what kinds of responsibilities do they begin to take on early in their placements?

      Our Co Sec trainees gain invaluable exposure to high-level work early in their secondments. Current trainees have actively contributed to preparing board packs and minutes, managing meeting logistics and action points, maintaining company registers, and handling Companies House filings. They also regularly assist with annual reports and the organization of AGMs.

      5. From your perspective working closely with in-house Co Sec and governance teams, what does governance look like day-to-day inside the organisations your trainees support?

      Across all the businesses we partner with, including FTSE 20 organisations, we see firsthand how closely Co Sec teams support daily operations well beyond standard company filings. The work is incredibly broad and dynamic; our trainees directly support vital decision-making functions and help ensure these organisations seamlessly meet their legal and regulatory obligations.

      KCB and BEGA launch fully funded MSc Governance bursary

      KCB, in partnership with the Black Excellence in Governance Awards (BEGA), is delighted to launch a fully funded bursary for one governance professional from a Black or Black heritage background.

      KCB and BEGA are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within the governance profession by creating opportunities that support the development of future leaders whose experiences and perspectives reflect the communities and organisations they serve.

      Neill McWilliams, KCB Programme Leader commented “Diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, experiences and voices is a cornerstone of strong governance. At KCB, we are committed to fostering inclusivity across all our programmes, and we want to ensure that our MSc Governance is no exception. We are proud to partner with BEGA to support talented Black governance professionals in reaching their full potential and contributing to the future of the governance profession.”

      Kako Mavalla, Convener of BEGA, commented: “One of BEGA’s core objectives is to create opportunities that extend beyond recognition and support the development of diverse pipeline of governance talent. We are delighted to partner with KCB to offer a life-changing bursary to a talented governance professional. By helping to remove barriers to world-class education in corporate governance, this initiative will equip the winner with the knowledge, skills and networks to thrive in the profession. We hope it is the first of many initiatives that help make governance more diverse, inclusive and representative of the communities we serve.”

      The bursary will cover the full tuition fees for the MSc Governance programme, delivered by KCB in collaboration with the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (CGIUKI) and the University of Essex. This unique programme provides a dual qualification, enabling graduates to achieve both an MSc Governance and Graduate Membership (GradCG) of CGIUKI, with a pathway to Chartered status for those who meet the relevant professional experience requirements.

      This is the first bursary scheme KCB has introduced for its MSc Governance programme, and we are actively developing further initiatives to ensure the programme is accessible to talented professionals from all backgrounds.

      Application Process

      The selection process consists of three stages:

      • Initial submission: Applicants submit their CV and a 500–750 word personal statement
      • Short essay stage: Eligible applicants will receive the short‑essay brief on 25 August and will have one week to submit a 300–500 word written response (2 September deadline)
      • Final selection: The top candidates will be invited to interview during the week commencing 15 September. The successful candidate will be notified by the end of September and will join the MSc Governance programme starting 14 October 2026. The bursary will be formally awarded at the BEGA Awards Ceremony on 15 October 2026

      Who the Bursary is for

      The bursary is open to applicants who:

      • Identify as being from a Black or Black‑heritage background
      • Are based in the United Kingdom for the duration of the programme
      • Applicants from all sectors are welcome to apply; however, priority will be given to those working in contexts where employer sponsorship for postgraduate study is not typically available, including the non-profit, charity, and voluntary sectors
      • Meet the academic entry requirements for the MSc Governance
      • Are able commit to part‑time study over two years

      Why this matters

      The governance profession plays a vital role in strengthening accountability, transparency and ethical leadership across organisations. By supporting talented individuals who may face barriers to postgraduate study, KCB and BEGA aim to contribute to a more inclusive and representative governance community.

      How to apply

      Applications are now open. Initial applications of your CV and Personal Statement will close on 18 August 2026.

      Full details and submission instructions can be found below.

      DateEvent
      25 JuneApplications open to submit your CV and 500-750 word personal statement to sophie@kcbglobal.net
      18 AugustDeadline for CV & personal statement submissions
      25 AugustShort‑essay instructions sent to eligible applicants
      2 SeptemberDeadline for 300–500 word short‑essay submissions
      w/c 15 SeptemberInterviews with top 5 candidates
      End of SeptemberFinal decision and winner notified
      14 OctoberMSc Governance programme begins
      15 OctoberBEGA Awards Evening

      You can learn more about the MSc Governance programme with KCB here.