Golden Valley Youth Advisory Board will help shape the future of cyber and technology innovation
A new Youth Advisory Board is being established to ensure that young people play a direct role in shaping the future of Golden Valley, the nationally significant cyber, AI, secure communications and emerging technology development soon to get underway in Cheltenham.
The Board will provide a formal mechanism for young people aged 16-24 to contribute ideas, challenge thinking and advise on issues including skills development, education, careers, inclusion, emerging technologies and community engagement.
Acting as a shadow to the existing Golden Valley Advisory Board, the group will ensure that the perspectives and experiences of young people help inform the development of one of the UK’s most ambitious innovation ecosystems.
The initiative reflects a shared commitment among Golden Valley partners to ensure that the development not only creates jobs and economic growth, but also delivers meaningful opportunities for future generations.
Members of the Youth Advisory Board will come from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, including students, apprentices, early-career professionals and young people with an interest in technology, innovation and security.
Meeting quarterly, Board members will have opportunities to engage directly with senior leaders, contribute to consultations and pilot initiatives, and help shape communications and outreach activities aimed at young people.
Dame Clare Marchant, DBE, University of Gloucestershire Vice-Chancellor and Skills Lead for the Golden Valley Advisory Board, said: “Golden Valley is a long-term investment in the future of our region and the opportunities it can create for generations to come. It is therefore vital that young people have a meaningful voice in helping to shape that future.
“The Youth Advisory Board will provide a platform for young people to share their perspectives, challenge assumptions and contribute ideas that will help ensure Golden Valley remains inclusive, responsible and focused on the needs of future generations.”
Bianca Holland, Education and Community Officer for University of Gloucestershire Students’ Union, said: “Young people will be among those most affected by the technological, economic and social changes that Golden Valley will bring. We want to ensure they are not simply consulted, but actively involved in shaping decisions and influencing priorities.
“This Board will help create a genuine dialogue between young people and leaders from across industry, education and the public sector, ensuring that future opportunities are informed by the people who will inherit them.”
Young people interested in joining the board are invited to initially express their interest by completing a short online form. A series of online information session will then take place in June and July, providing opportunities for people to ask questions and learn more ahead of making an application via an informal process.
Applications will close on 31 August 2026, with interviews and selection taking place in September before the first meeting of the board in the Autumn.
More information is available on University of Gloucestershire’s website.