Volunteer Trustee with Education Leadership experience to join Multi-Academy Trust Board

What will you be doing?

We place children and young people at the heart of everything we do and our shared moral purpose ensures that we bring out the best in children of all abilities and from all backgrounds. We are a community partnership built on a culture of trust, openness and collaboration and we have a proven track record of supporting schools and their communities, and for providing high quality professional development for our staff. We want our new Trustee to believe in and align with our values and to understand that the role is a strategic one.  Our non-executive Trust Board establishes policies and objectives, monitors performance, and holds the Chief Executive and wider executive leadership to account for achieving educational and operational goals. Trustees also ensure compliance with legal and financial requirements, as well as upholding high standards of governance. The role will suit someone who is ambitious both for themselves and our school community; someone who can demonstrate a commitment to inclusive practice, has excellent communication skills and an ability to motivate and inspire others. Time Commitment There are six formal Trust Board meetings each academic year which take place in person in the early evenings.  As a Trustee, you are also expected to join a Trust Committee, which meets online once a term, and attend three governance training and networking sessions which are a mix of in person and online.  There is also the opportunity to take part in panels across the Trust.  Trustees will probably need to contribute around 3 to 5 hours a month. This allows for an average of 1 meeting a month with time for reading and preparation.  The hours may not be balanced across the months, with some months having two meetings and others none.  We very much encourage our Trustees to visit our schools and they are invited to participate in key events such as recruitment days, prospective student events and awards evenings.  All reasonable expenses for travel can be claimed back.

What are we looking for?

Following a review of Trust Board skills and knowledge, we are interested to hear from those with skills and experience in Education Leadership and SEND. First time Trustees are welcome to apply provided they understand the governance role and how it differs from executive leadership. We are particularly interested in individuals who may be open to taking on a board leadership role at either the Trust Board or committee level. By sharing your skills, expertise, and passion for education, you can play a crucial role in promoting educational excellence, fostering collaboration among our schools and driving positive change within our organisation. Personal Qualities

Commitment to the ethos and values of Maiden Erlegh Trust. Commitment to the education and welfare of children and young people. Commitment to equal opportunities and the promotion of diversity. Independence of thought and sound judgment. Commitment to seeking and taking account of the views of stakeholders (e.g. parents and pupils). Respect for the work and views of other trustees and staff. Willingness to devote time, enthusiasm and effort to the duties and responsibilities of a trustee. Willingness to make and stand by collective decisions, even if s/he offered an alternative view during discussions.

Aptitude and Skills

Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. Ability to challenge current thinking, the method of governance and management of the Trust in a constructive manner and in the best interests of the Trust. Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data/evidence. Ability to play a strategic role to successfully effect change and meet the objectives of the Trust. Eagerness to reflect and learn.

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will be supported by an exceptional and experienced team of Trustees and will form strong relationships with colleagues throughout the Trust. You will play a key role in ensuring that, as the Trust continues to grow, we stay true to our values and principles.  By sharing your skills, expertise, and passion for education, you can play a crucial role in promoting educational excellence, fostering collaboration among our schools and driving positive change within our organisation.