BUCS, as a member organisation representing 157 institutions across the UK while providing 55 sports and disciplines available for students to participate in.
The drive to improve governance in the sector was instigated by its membership, and BUCS has engaged in roadshows and member-led working groups on areas such as subscription fees and key elements of its regulations - including commercial rights.
At an Extraordinary General Meeting in July 2025 a proposal for significant change to BUCS’ Articles of Association was passed unanimously, following an extensive period of consultation.
BUCS Chair and Vice Chancellor & President of University of East London, Professor Amanda Broderick, said: “In my position as Chair of the Board of Trustees at BUCS, I’m delighted at the progress we have made to reach this point.
“Being officially fully compliant with the UK Sport/Sport England code reflects the rapid improvement the BUCS Executive have made in this space, and in reaching a strong consensus with our members in areas such as subscription fees and our Articles of Association.
“Our Board of Trustees is a dynamic, inspiring group of independent, member and student voices, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with both them and the BUCS Executive to deliver on our ambitious goals.”
The UK Sport/Sport England Code sets out the levels of transparency, diversity and inclusion, accountability and integrity that are required from those organisations who seek - and are in receipt of - UK Government and National Lottery funding.
To achieve this BUCS has:
- Developed a comprehensive People Plan
Prioritising workforce development, wellbeing, and succession planning to support long-term organisational resilience and inclusive leadership.
- Embedded stakeholder, societal, and environmental impact into decision-making
Adopted a more holistic governance lens - ensuring that strategic choices reflect the interests of students, institutions, and the wider community.
- Introduced a Matters Reserved for the Board policy
Clarified the division of responsibilities between the Board and executive team, strengthening accountability and strategic oversight.
- Strengthened governance foundations and operational robustness
Refined key documents, policies, and reporting mechanisms to ensure compliance, transparency, and effective risk management.
- Enhanced Board composition and recruitment practices
Improved diversity, skills alignment, and independence through structured trustee recruitment and onboarding processes.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement and compliance
Regularly reviewed governance practices against the Code, embedding a proactive approach to reform and assurance.
As a requirement under both the Charity Governance Code and Sport England/UK Sports A Code for Sports Governance, BUCS instructed consultants Governance United to conduct an external evaluation of its Board effectiveness which included observations of Board meetings, Trustee surveys and interviews, committee observations and a review of governance documentation.
Governance United’s Gemma Sykes, who oversaw the review, said: “Our independent review found BUCS to be a well-governed organisation, with a number of elements of its governance being exemplars of best practice.
“In the context of emerging from a period of transition, including changes at leadership level and the recent revisions to the Articles of Association, we found BUCS to be led by a highly competent and engaged Board with a well-respected Chair, supported by a strong executive team led by a Chief Executive who is held in high regard.
“The standard of governance documents was also to be commended. In conducting the review, we identified a number of areas where improvements could be made to enhance the organisation’s governance arrangements. It should be noted that none of the issues we found constitute significant risks to the organisation.
“We are pleased by the commitment BUCS has already shown in taking on board all of our recommendations and setting in place an action plan.”
Will Roberts, BUCS CEO, added: “We are a membership organisation, and our mission to deliver exceptional student sporting experiences that inspire, develop and unite can only be achieved with a sharp focus on good governance.
“I’d like to personally thank those who have contributed to this process so far, and while I am delighted to have reached this milestone, I am committed to ensuring we continue to evolve and grow in this space.”
