Volunteer Trustee and Finance, Audit and Risk Committee Member

What will you be doing?

 Governance & Strategic Leadership:

Set and review the Trust’s vision, ethos, and strategic direction. Ensure compliance with the Department for Education (DfE), the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA), and relevant statutory obligations. Develop and monitor policies that support the academy’s educational and operational objectives.

Educational Oversight and Pupil Outcomes:

Hold academy leaders accountable for delivering high standards of teaching, learning, and pupil achievement. Monitor key performance indicators, including attainment, progress, and pupil well-being. Support and challenge the Executive team to ensure continuous school improvement. Ensure equality, inclusion, and safeguarding are prioritised across the Trust and individual schools.

Financial and Resource Management:

Oversee and approve the Trust’s budget, ensuring value for money. Ensure compliance with Department of Education financial regulations, funding agreements, and the Academies Handbook. Monitor expenditure, financial risks, and audit reports, ensuring effective resource allocation.

Governance and Compliance

Ensure the academy meets its statutory duties, including safeguarding, health and safety, and curriculum requirements. Participate in external inspections (e.g., Ofsted) and support the Trust’s self-evaluation processes. Uphold the highest standards of governance, transparency, and ethical behaviour including The Seven Principles of Public Life. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-7-principles-of-public-li...

Community and Stakeholder Engagement:

Act as an ambassador for the Trust, engaging with parents, staff, pupils, and the wider community. Support partnerships with local authorities, businesses, and other educational institutions. Ensure that the views and interests of all stakeholders are considered in decision-making

What are we looking for?

We are seeking people who are community minded and contribute to a range of perspectives. Specific skills in finance, risk and resource management. 

A commitment to high-quality education and pupil success. Strategic thinking and the ability to support and challenge senior leaders constructively. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Financial acumen and an understanding of school funding (desirable but not essential). Knowledge of governance, law, education policy, or risk management (preferred but not required).

Eligibility to serve as a Trustee, as per the Companies Act 2006 and Charity Commission regulations.

What difference will you make?

This is an opportunity to join an experienced and friendly Board of Trustees who are committed to the improvement journey we are on to provide the best possible education experience for our young people. The role of trustee is critical to shaping and supporting the Trust's vision for educating our students. This is a real opportunity to improve the lives of young people, their families and our communities. We are looking for someone who can support us to use our resources efficiently and in line with our vision for the Trust.