Goldsmiths' College: Governance

Records of the College Delegacy and committees, Council and committees, Academic Board and committees, Warden, Deputy Warden and Registrars, 1904-2014

See also GID/1/3

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The Goldsmiths' College Delegacy, established in November 1904, was the senior governing body of the College from its institution in 1905. At its inception, it was composed of representatives from the University of London Senate, the London County Council, the Kent, Surrey and Middlesex County Councils, the Croydon Borough Council, the Goldsmiths' Company, as well as the University Principal and the University Professor of Education. Its first Chairman was Sir Edward Busk, appointed 1904, The Delegacy continued to be the senior governing body of the College until 1988, when it was replaced by the Council.

The Council was established in September 1988, replacing the Delegacy as senior governing body of the College, which it remains. It is responsible for the non-academic business of the College, including audits and risk, nominations, remuneration, finance and resources, health and safety, estates and infrastructure, human resources and external relations, each of which is handled by a dedicated committee.The Academic Board is the supreme academic authority within the College.

The post of Warden was first created with the establishment of the College in 1905, when the first Warden, William Loring, was appointed. The Warden is the chief executive officer of the College. Warden is a unique title for the head of a British university or college, where the equivalent role is normally known as a Vice-Chancellor. The title of 'Warden' is a reminder of the founding of the College by the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, which is headed by a Warden. The Warden provides academic and administrative leadership for the University. He leads the Senior Management Team which considers major policy issues and oversees the submission of business to Council and Academic Board.

The position of Deputy Warden is not a permanent one, but the Council may. After consultation with the Warden, appoint a Deputy Warden for a period of time determined by them. The Deputy Warden performs the functions of the Warden should that official be unable to do so, and is an ex-officio member of the Council.

The position of Registrar was created in 1958 when George Cecil Wood was appointed to that position. The Registrar or Secretary and Registrar is appointed by the Council and acts as Secretary to both the Council and the Academic Board.