Education trustee volunteer roles in england

As our current Chair of Trustees completes her 6 year tenure, we are looking to welcome a new chair to continue her stellar work in governance and strategy.

Walworth Garden is a charity dedicated to knowledge and nurture. Our aim is to improve lives by providing excellent learning and horticultural therapy through an award winning garden that’s open to all. Leading our board, the new Chair of Trustees will work to ensure our charitable aims are upheld and our ambitious strategic plan guides our activities. They will join us at an exciting point in our development as we prepare to begin works on the construction of an Environmental Learning Centre.

We particularly seek support from those living or working locally and who have trustee and/or professional charity leadership experience. You will need to be able to commit two hours for meetings every other month, from 7-9pm. Additional time will be needed to read the board papers which will be sent in advance, meet with the CEO, and occasional discussions outside of regular meetings. More information on these expectations can be found below.

Walworth Garden is committed to equality of opportunity, and values diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic locals who have been historically excluded from the horticulture industries, as well as applications from LGBTQIA+ candidates.

The Caldecott Foundation provides specialist residential care, fostering families and education for disadvantaged, vulnerable and traumatised young people in the UK.

We are seeking a Trustee with risk management and/or auditing experience. You will join a team of Trustees and staff helping some of the most vulnerable children in our society to build a future and reach their potential.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a leading role for the Board on organisational risk management and audit arrangements. Whilst the organisation currently has expertise in finance and business who can contribute to discussion around organisational risk, the Caldecott Foundation is seeking to add to this expertise, primarily regarding risks concerning Ofsted regulations, reputational and service delivery risks pertaining to working with vulnerable young people.

Whilst applications from all sectors will be considered, it is hoped that this important role can be filled by someone with expertise in social care and, ideally, someone who understands the organisational challenges and risks inherent in working with children and young people.

Our Board meetings are held four times a year. You will also Chair the risk and audit committee, which meet 4 times a year.

Person Description

• Someone with a passion for helping the most vulnerable children build a future and reach their potential.
• Someone with significant experience of operating at a senior level of business, preferably within an organisation which links to children and young people or someone who has worked with children and vulnerable adults in the past.
• Experience of risk management and/or auditing (preferably in a service industry other than finance).
• Experience of working with committees and chairing committees.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to work with a range of people with different roles.
• Someone with the ability to listen to others and bring in external expertise when needed.

What impact the opportunity will have?

Your experience and expertise will add immense value to the existing Board. The Trustee role is a critical one within the functioning of the organisation and as part of a group of volunteer Trustees you will be an important member of the leadership team. Through your involvement you will contribute to an organisation achieving outstanding long term outcomes for some of the most vulnerable young people in our society.

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting The Caldecott Foundation with their Trustee recruitment and applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.

To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to the Board.

Please let us know if you need any support with your application or to apply in a different way and we will be pleased to work with you to ensure this is possible.

We believe that every child should have access to a quality education at a safe, inclusive school, with the opportunity to become a truly global citizen… do you too?

It’s an incredibly exciting time at African Adventures Foundation as we develop the vital programmes we deliver at the 34 partner schools we work with in Ghana, Kenya, and Zanzibar.

We have ambitious plans to help drive greater impact at our partner schools, and are looking to strengthen our existing Trustee Board that’s full of energy and experience!

 Do you have experience in charity governance, delivering projects in an African culture and context, or delivering WASH or female empowerment/education/menstrual health programmes?

If so, read on… we’d be keen to hear from you about becoming one of our amazing volunteer trustees! 

Introduction to African Adventures Foundation

African Adventures Foundation is a registered charity set up in 2013 to provide support to 34 schools in developing areas of Ghana, Kenya and Zanzibar.

These schools provide education, health and food security, and social support to young people whose access to these basic services would otherwise be very limited. African Adventures Foundation helps by funding food security programmes, the construction of important school facilities, and hygiene projects that will benefit children’s health and education.

Our mission is to provide more children with a quality education and better opportunities in life.

 All trustees are responsible for governing a charitable company and directing its management and operation. They must also ensure that the trust complies with all legal and statutory requirements.

Trustee Responsibilities:

The role of a Governance & Delivery Trustee is to ensure the Foundation complies with its charity obligations, maximise impact through effective in country project delivery, and bring valuable insight into the specific cultural and operational context of working in Africa.

We are looking for two Trustees to bring specific expertise to the overall Trustee Board alongside the Chair, Fundraising, and Treasurer Trustee positions.

Governance (role specific)

● Understand and represent the needs of the charity’s governing framework on behalf of the Chair and board.

● Recommend relevant changes or documentation, and identify any areas od noncompliance to be addressed within improvement plans.

● Act as spokesperson and figurehead for African Adventures Foundation internally and externally concerning our charity governance.

 Delivery (role specific)

 ● Contribute to governance, approval, and impact assessment processes at board level for the successful delivery of Foundation projects.

● Provide best practice advice, support, and oversight to the projects being delivered on behalf of the board as required.

Context & Culture (role specific)

●    Bring experience, knowledge and good judgement relating to the culture and context of the communities and territories we operate in.

● Bring an understanding of delivering charitable projects in an African educational context to board level.

● Bring an understanding to Trustee Board level, of delivering WASH programmes and Female empowerment, education, and menstrual health projects.

General (all Trustees)

 ● Support and provide advice on AAF’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities while working alongside the trustee Board, founder, and African Adventures personnel.

● Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation, adding to overall good charity governance.

● Support broad decision-making, risk management, and charity planning through a range of platforms and processes.

● Keep abreast of changes in AAF’s operating environment through your external experience.

● Be fully prepared to attend, participate and contribute in Board meetings and Trustee events.

● Act as AAF ambassador applying your skills, experience and knowledge in a range of scenarios including government, fundraising and networking events.

● Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect African Adventures Foundation’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

● Support the Chair with administrative tasks as required.

 What we are looking for:

● Attention to detail.

● A good knowledge of charity governance and willingness to challenge.

● A good understanding of delivering charity/NGO projects.

● A good understanding of operating and/or overseeing delivery in an African culture and context.

● Background in WASH and/or female empowerment, education, and menstrual health projects.

  Essential qualities and attributes of all our trustees

● Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees, and to act in the organisation's best interests.

● Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions.

● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

● Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

● Willingness to lead according to African Adventures Foundation’s values.

● Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

 Terms of appointment

 ● Trustees are appointed for a 2-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 6 years.

● This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

 Time commitment (estimated at one day every month)

● Attending quarterly Trustee Board meetings. Currently, these are alternating between online and in-person at HQ near Southampton, UK. 

● Flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue and Trustee comms

● Attending occasion workshops and fundraising & networking events as per availability.

We are looking for people to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role and broaden the diversity of thought within our board.

Herts Disability Sports Foundation is where everyone (absolutely everyone!) is empowered to experience the joys of belonging, achieving and physical activity. Through our diverse activities, individuals become functionally fitter, but also develop self-esteem, confidence and life skills as they connect with and belong to a safe community of others like them.  And we have a lot of fun!  

The Board would like to appoint a Trustee with Human Resources skills and experience to challenge and support the Board and Senior Management Team.  We plan to expand our services across the county over the coming years and are looking for a Trustee who will share their skills to support and drive our strategy.  Above all, our Trustees should be passionate about what HDSF is striving to achieve.

We operate in Hertfordshire and are now being recognised across the county as a source of expertise for disability sport and physical activity - from our track record, the skills of our staff and our open commitment to ‘practise what we preach’ on a daily basis.HDSF believes that quality of life can be improved through involvement in sports and physical activity opportunities - and that everyone should have access to these benefits.  The Charity exists to provide support, education, training and the opportunity to take part in sporting activities for individuals who struggle to access sport and physical activity - to improve physical health and wellbeing.

We aim to be an inclusive organisation, and welcome applications from anyone interested in supporting our purpose, particularly from those who have lived experience of disability (either personally or through their role as a parent/carer) and/or the sectors of our community which are often under-represented on charity boards.

In return, we offer the opportunity to join a diverse and lively Board of Trustees.  We are passionate about HDSF and have a keen interest in the disability community and physical activity.  We each bring a different set of skills to the Board (which we think is a real positive) and we try to ensure that each Trustee has the opportunity to make a difference to HDSF, using their personal and professional skills in a way that is both enjoyable and personally rewarding. 

VOLUNTARY (UNPAID)

We operate two small, World War 2 Heritage Centres; one in Dunkeswell and one Near Upottery (Smeatharpe) in Devon.

Ideally we are looking for local, friendly and approachable people with some spare time, to work as one of a pair, particularly on a Sunday and maybe other days as holiday relief or in case of sickness. Our usual opening times are: Thursday to Sunday, 1100 to 1600. The start of our season is Good Friday and it ends on the last Sunday in October.

An interest in history would be an advantage to you (especially WW2) but you would be surrounded by the history of that Heritage Centre in text and pictures so it is immediately accessible and easy to point visitors towards.  You would work with an experienced person and would have training and briefings first.

If you find this appealing please do contact us and we can get Brian to have an informal chat with you about the role.

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE UNABLE TO PROCESS APPLICATIONS FROM OUTSIDE THE UK AS WE DO NOT HAVE THE RESOURCES OR FACILITIES TO DO SO.

Could your experience and skills help us reduce homelessness in Brighton and Hove?

 If so, this is a truly exciting time to join our charity as we make progress against our 2024-2030 Strategy.

We are currently seeking volunteer trustees to join our experienced Board who oversee our organisation's governance, compliance, reach and impact.

Our Values​: Community​, Compassion​, Empowerment

If you share our values and have the passion and drive to help us achieve our vision, please send your CV and a covering Letter to our Recruitment Officer: Noeleen Anstee We look forward to hearing from you and would be delighted to have an informal chat about the role if required.

We value equity, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from everyone, but to fully reflect our client group and the local population, we’re particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise in: Housing, Mental Health and/or have lived experience of homelessness and from people who identify as belonging to a Black and/or Minority Ethnic (BME) group.

Are you a dedicated professional with a heart for healing, nature, and community? The Therapy Garden is seeking exceptional individuals with expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising to join our team of Trustees.

About Us: The Therapy Garden is a horticulture and education charity that uses gardening to generate positive change. We work with adults and teenagers with learning difficulties, physical disabilities and mental health challenges and offer school-age teenagers interventional education opportunities.

Based in the village of Normandy, Surrey, the charity was established in 1998 by a local resident, with the aim of using the healing power of horticulture to connect with vulnerable members of our community.

Your Role as a Trustee: As a Trustee, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping and supporting the future of The Therapy Garden. Your expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising will be vital as we continue to flourish and offer our services to a growing community.

Responsibilities include:

• Charitable Knowledge: Impart knowledge and take the lead in guiding the trustees in charitable matters.

Requirements:

• Demonstrable experience working at or with charities.
  Knowledge of the regulatory and legal frameworks for charities.

Why join us:

• Meaningful Impact: Make a direct impact on individuals seeking healing and rejuvenation through the power of nature
• Collaborative Environment: Collaborate with a passionate team that shares your commitment to well-being and community
• Personal Growth: Enhance your leadership skills and expertise by being part of a dynamic team dedicated to making positive change.

Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.

If you’re ready to align your expertise with a purpose-driven cause, The Therapy Garden invites you to apply as a Trustee. Together, we can cultivate well-being, nurture growth, and provide solace to those in need.

Transform lives through nature.  Apply now to become a Trustee at The Therapy Garden.

We are excited to welcome new Trustees who share our passion and vision.

Join a dynamic board supporting primary schools in diverse, deprived areas. Use your strategic finance skills to shape the trust’s future, ensure sustainability, and help every child thrive through smart, impactful use of resources.

What will you be doing?

We are seeking a Lead Finance Trustee to join our committed and dynamic board of trustees, working to support primary schools in some of the most socially diverse and economically deprived areas. This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced and strategically-minded finance professional to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.

As Lead Finance Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the trust’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability and effective resource allocation. You will use your knowledge of strategic financial management to help oversee budgets, support informed decision-making, and provide robust challenge and assurance to the executive team.

Your expertise will help ensure that public funds are used wisely and transparently, so that every pound spent has a direct, positive impact on pupils. Working closely with other trustees and leaders, you’ll help ensure the trust’s priorities align with its mission to support children in overcoming barriers, reaching their full potential, and thriving at school.

This is an opportunity to apply your skills and values where they truly matter—supporting equity in education and contributing to brighter futures for the next generation.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a finance professional with the vision, integrity and commitment to contribute meaningfully to the strategic leadership of our trust. As Lead Finance Trustee, you will provide expert guidance and challenge on the trust’s financial sustainability and ensure that public funding is used effectively to support the best possible outcomes for children.

You should bring:

• Proven experience in strategic financial leadership, ideally at board or senior management level, within a public, private or charitable sector organisation
• A strong understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, risk management, and long-term financial planning
• The ability to interpret complex financial information and communicate it clearly to non-financial colleagues
• A track record of constructive challenge and oversight, with sound judgement and a strategic mindset

While experience in education is not essential, an understanding of public sector funding, academy trust structures, or governance in a regulated environment would be advantageous.

You will also bring the following personal qualities:

• A commitment to educational equality and improving life chances for children in disadvantaged communities
• Independence of thought, professional curiosity, and a willingness to challenge assumptions in the best interests of pupils
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and values-driven board
• Integrity, discretion, and a deep sense of accountability for public resources

This voluntary role is ideal for someone who wants to apply their financial expertise to a cause that matters. You’ll play a key part in helping us deliver sustainable, high-impact education for children who need it most.

What difference will you make?

As Lead Finance Trustee, your influence will reach far beyond balance sheets.

You will ensure that financial decisions directly translate into better outcomes for children, particularly those facing disadvantage. By applying your expertise, you’ll help the trust allocate resources effectively—supporting high-quality teaching, inclusive learning environments, and targeted interventions where they’re needed most.

Your strategic oversight will:

• Strengthen the trust’s financial resilience, enabling it to adapt and grow sustainably
• Guarantee that public funds are used transparently and in the best interests of children
• Help shape long-term goals that reflect the needs of diverse, underserved communities
• Provide assurance to stakeholders, parents, and regulators that the trust’s finances are robust and ethically managed

Ultimately, your role will empower the trust to deliver on its mission: to raise aspirations and improve life chances for every child.

Before you apply

A simple CV or application plus an informal interview to assess suitability

Seeking the next visionary to lead Pegasus Opera Company as Chair of Trustees

What will you be doing?

Are you ready to lead with purpose and passion? Pegasus is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chair of the Board to help shape the future of our vibrant charity. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact by championing our mission, empowering our people, and guiding us toward an ambitious new era.

As Chair, you’ll provide inspiring, inclusive leadership to our Board of Trustees—ensuring we remain bold, accountable, and united in delivering real change. You'll collaborate closely with a committed Executive Team, including our Artistic Director, Executive Director, and Talent Director, to set the strategic direction and drive innovation at every level.

What are we looking for?

The ideal Chair will have senior strategic leadership experience, a successful track record, and a solid understanding of charity governance. They’ll be confident in chairing meetings, managing stakeholders, and acting as an ambassador. A strong passion for opera and commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the charity’s mission are essential. Candidates should bring gravitas, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to foster collaboration and be willing to commit time to attend events and meetings outside of normal working hours.

What difference will you make?

The Chair will play a pivotal role in shaping Pegasus’s future, providing the strategic leadership, governance oversight, and inspiration needed to drive the charity into its next chapter. By fostering a high-performing Board, strengthening accountability, and supporting the Senior Management Team, the Chair will ensure that Pegasus remains artistically bold, financially resilient, and true to its mission of championing diversity in opera.

They will be a unifying force—guiding trustees, energising stakeholders, and amplifying Pegasus’s voice across the sector. With their influence, the organisation will build deeper partnerships, enhance its public profile, and grow its impact for artists and communities alike.

Ultimately, the Chair will be the catalyst for Pegasus to thrive artistically, operationally, and socially—ensuring it continues to lead with purpose and ambition on a national stage.

Before you apply

To be considered for this role, please send your CV along with an expression of interest in the form of a cover note or letter 

About Roots Academy

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 1,800 students across the UK.

Role Summary

As a Governance Officer, you will work closely with the Governance Lead to ensure strong governance practices across Roots Academy. Your role will focus on supporting governance frameworks, policies, and compliance measures to align with charity governance requirements and relevant regulations. You will also play a key role in embedding a culture of governance across the organisation.

Key tasks

▪ Trustee Support

○ Assist trustees with governance-related tasks and ensure they have access to relevant policies, guidelines, and resources.

○ Direct trustees to appropriate regulatory frameworks, best practices, and governance training materials.

▪ Governance & Compliance Support

○ Support the onboarding process for new trustees, ensuring all necessary documentation is collected and securely stored.

○ Assist in coordinating trustee meetings, including preparation of agendas, accurate minute-taking, and document distribution.

○ Maintain key governance registers, such as the register of interests, policy register, and risk register, ensuring timely updates and compliance.

▪ Policy & Risk Management

○ Support the Governance Lead in developing and reviewing governance policies, including Conflict of Interest, Risk Management, and Whistleblowing Policies.

○ Assist team leads in ensuring policies are implemented effectively and aligned with best practices.

○ Help monitor compliance with Charity Commission regulations and the Fundraising Code of Conduct.

▪ Embedding a Governance Culture

○ Assist in raising awareness of governance principles across the organisation.

○ Support the Governance Lead in organising training sessions or briefings on governance best practices.

○ Help integrate governance principles into the organisation’s operations and decision-making processes.

What we’re looking for

▪ Interest or experience in charity governance, risk management, or compliance.

▪ Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.

▪ Excellent organisation and communication skills.

▪ Ability to work independently while collaborating with different teams.

▪ Familiarity with Charity Commission Regulations and governance best practices (desirable but not essential).

What we have to offer

▪ Be part of a dedicated team of 90+ volunteers across the UK.

▪ Contribute to a growing organisation that educates and empowers the Muslim community.

▪ Access to in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen.

▪ Receive continuous rewards for facilitating Islamic education through Roots Academy.

Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer position. Volunteers can claim expenses for food, travel, and equipment in line with the Expenses Policy.

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location:Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

To apply, please send a copy of your CV accompanied by a covering letter to our recruitment team, alternatively, visit our website or more information.  

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager 

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee 

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association 

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be 

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth 

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds 

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance 

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4. Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee must have: 

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth 

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement 

● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims 

● Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind 

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise 

● Integrity

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management 

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise 

● Safeguarding experience and expertise 

● Public policy and public affairs 

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the legal profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide legal advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6. Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees 

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary 

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-p

Heartwood House is a dynamic education charity that supports young people who self-exclude from school and are missing education because of bullying or other trauma. They provide both an academic and therapeutic programme to enable their students to get back on track and reconnect with society. Heartwood House has been delivering services in NW London for 20 years.  They have supported many students in their return to mainstream education, further education and employment.  They work with many local authorities such as Harrow, Hillingdon, Hertfordshire, Brent, Ealing, Barnet, Camden and many more.

Heartwood House (based in Harrow) is now looking to strengthen its Board and we are seeking a Company Secretary and named Trustee for Governance and Law – you will bring insight and understanding of charity law, Charity Commission legal regulations, Company Legislation and best practice. 

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and a highly rewarding way to support an organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

Heartwood House is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, Heartwood House are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.

Lay Trustee

Voluntary

20-25 hours per year

3-year term of office (maximum of 2 terms)

Would you like play an important role in supporting our Executive to continuously improve our organisation, to navigate the current financial climate and challenges in higher education, and to maintain excellent services to students (our members)? 

Worcester Students’ Union (WSU) is a registered charity (number 1145192) and a membership organisation, with its primary object being the advancement of education of students at the University of Worcester. The Union aims to achieve this through:

• representing students’ interests and welfare
• being the recognised representative channel between students, the University, and external stakeholders, and by
• providing social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities for students. 

WSU is an unincorporated company with a Board of Trustees comprising of three Officer Trustees (the Full-time, elected Officers), up to four Student Trustees, and up to four Lay Trustees. The Board is responsible for the oversight of the Union’s governance, strategy, and financial sustainability. The post of Lay Trustee has a 3-year term and post holders may serve a maximum of two terms, either consecutively or non-consecutively. 

We pride ourselves on providing a range of excellent services to students, having a strong reputation nationally, and going above and beyond for students to make a difference. As a team, we are determined to constantly evolve with the help of our dynamic and committed staff, who are working to our new Strategic Framework for 2023-28, which you can find on the WSU's website under the About Us section.

This is a very important time for WSU as we manage the challenges posed by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the well-documented difficulties being experienced by higher education providers. We must support the needs of a diverse and ever-changing student body across multiple campuses, with less resource and pressure to diversify income streams.  

Students’ Unions are unique organisations where change is the norm and where students are at the heart of strategy and decision-making. They deliver a wide range of services in a passionate, cost-effective, and professional way and are necessarily responsible, vibrant, and fast-paced. Becoming a Trustee of a Union is an excellent way of providing support and guidance whilst gaining personal knowledge and satisfaction. We have an excellent Board and currently have a vacancy for a Trustee with experience of charity/organisational senior management (Director/CEO etc.) and/or business development.

There are 5 full Board meetings per year and, also, 5 meetings of the two Sub Committees of the Board. We estimate that time to attend meetings (we ask that Lay Trustees sit on one Sub Committee), as well as time to prepare and read papers and liaise with the Chief Executive, totals between 20 to 25 hours per year. Meetings are on-line and so we welcome applications from further afield.

WSU recognises the value of difference and is committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religious belief, age, marital status or disability, or any other individual characteristic or intersectionality of different characteristics.

We want to support a diverse and inclusive environment as we believe it makes a team more effective and are actively looking for people who share our values. You can see our work as an organisation and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion by visiting the About Us section of the WSU's website.

To maintain our independence from the University of Worcester, and to ensure a balance to the student membership of the Board, we cannot consider applications for the role of external trustee from current registered students of the University of Worcester. Alumni are not eligible to be Trustees until at least five years after graduation. 

To avoid potential conflicts of interest, applications also cannot be considered from individuals who are employees of either the University of Worcester or Worcester Students’ Union.

Testimonial from one of our current Lay Trustees:

"As a Trustee I have been able to share my knowledge of the voluntary sector to support WSU, but it has also been an opportunity for me to develop professionally, through broadening my understanding and learning from others. When I first became a Trustee, I was in a Business Development role, but through the experience I have gained, it has helped me to progress my career, now as a Managing Director of a local VCSE organisation."

How to apply:

• To apply for this position, please follow the link to our website to read through the information pack and obtain the application form for this role.
• The Appointments Panel aim to hold interviews on-line during June 2025, with the aim of the successful candidate being inducted ready to commence their role in September 2025.
• If you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact the Chief Executive, Sophie Williams, via the email provided in the vacancy listing on our website.

Thank you for your time and we very much look forward to hearing from you.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 63 (Bridgnorth) Squadron, Cadet Centre, Oldbury Wells School, Oldbury Wells, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5JE 
• 83 (St Georges) Squadron, Territorial House Army Reserve Centre, Trench Road, Trench, Shropshire, TF2 8DY 
• 265 (Chetwynd) Squadron, The Lodge, Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 8EU
• 333 (Ludlow) Squadron, ATC Centre, Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 1RU 
• 1130 (Wrekin) Squadron, Cadet Centre, King Street, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1NX 
• 2379 (Dawley) Squadron, Bridgman House Army Reserve Centre, Cavan Drive, Dawley, Shropshire, TF4 2BQ 
• 2497 (Cosford) Squadron, RAF Cosford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, WV7 3EX 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you!