Our patrons

The Rt Hon the Lord Knight of Weymouth, Jim Knight, became Patron of ASDAN in January 2015.

Jim Knight has an extensive background in education, digital technology, and legislation. He serves as the Non-Executive Chair of several educational organisations, including the E-ACT Multi-Academy Trust, the Council of British International Schools, Century-Tech, and STEM Learning Ltd. Additionally, he is a member of the Pearson Qualifications Committee and offers his expertise as an advisor to GoodNotes, Edwin Group, and Everfi.

During his time as a government minister and MP, Jim Knight's portfolios encompassed rural affairs, schools, digital policy, and employment. He was a member of Gordon Brown's Cabinet before being appointed to the House of Lords in 2010, where he continues to speak regularly on education and technology policy.

The Rt Hon the Baroness Corston became a patron of ASDAN in May 2016 having first become involved with the charity almost 20 years ago.

A former ASDAN trustee from 1997 to 2008, Baroness Jean Corston served as MP for Bristol East from 1992 to 2005 before becoming a member of the House of Lords. Baroness Corston officially opened ASDAN’s central office, Wainbrook House, Bristol East, in July 2001.

Since her elevation to the Lords, she has written a seminal report – A review of women with particular vulnerabilities in the criminal justice system – known as the Corston Report. In 2015, she chaired the House of Lords Select Committee on Social Mobility enquiry into the transition of young people from school to work.