Education volunteer roles

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

East Sussex College Group (ESCG) are keen to appoint motivated and dynamic Governors from a wide range of backgrounds and with a diversity of skills and experience.

Location: Eastbourne, Lewes, Hastings & Newhaven

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 10th November.

ESCG, formed in 2018 following a merger between Sussex Coast College Hastings and Sussex Downs College, is the leading destination for further education in East Sussex. The College spans four campuses and offers a variety of traditional sixth form subjects, alongside vocational and professional courses, apprenticeships and much, much more!  We pride ourselves in being welcoming and inclusive, with a strong sense of community and a commitment to improving outcomes for all who study with us.

The Board, together with the Chief Executive Officer & Principal, constitutes the highest level of decision-making in the College Group, having overall responsibility for the strategic direction and financial health of the institution. As an Independent Governor, you will be at the very heart of the College Group, not only responsible for determining the education and training provided and the strategy for delivering it, but also leading the drive to maintain excellent teaching and learning, improving outcomes for young people and adult learners in Hastings, Eastbourne, Lewes and Newhaven.

We are looking to engage Governors with a passion and interest in supporting the lives of young people and adults through education.

You do not need to be an expert in education, but what you do need is the drive and ambition to support others to succeed, to be an ambassador for the college and all that we do for our local communities, students, stakeholders, and our people.

Having recently carried out a skills audit of our current Governors, there are some particular areas of expertise that we are keen to engage with the Board. These are:

• Financial management expertise, with either a specialism in FE and/or a qualified accountant.
• Audit knowledge and experience.
• Digital/AI expertise.
• Expertise in complex capital and infrastructure projects.
• Experience in marketing and strategic communications.
• Organisational culture and managing change.
• FE curriculum and quality expertise.

However, this is not an exhaustive list. We are also interested in candidates with knowledge of the Lewes/Newhaven local areas, ideally with an existing network within local industries and/or relationships with key community stakeholders.

ESCG is committed to reflecting the diversity of the people and communities it serves, to ensure a breadth of experiences and to govern a genuinely inclusive organisation. Diversity brings competing perspectives and is an important protection against ‘groupthink’ at the Board level. In this regard, the diversity of Governors ensures that decision-making perspectives are enhanced. Diversity information is captured during the application process and is used to support the Board in enhancing its diversification agenda.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 10th November.

About the organisation

Salterns Academy Trust is a flourishing community of three schools committed to providing exceptional education and opportunities for every young person in our care. We are a collaborative family of schools focused on driving continuous improvement for all our learners and staff., We are now seeking additional Trustees to join our Board and help shape the next phase of our journey.

We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. We are proud to champion equality, diversity, and inclusion in all that we do. We encourage applications from a wide range of professional fields and backgrounds. As part of our Board’s succession planning, expertise in Estates, IT and Facilities, Secondary Education, or Legal fields would help to strengthen and balance our collective experience. While being local to Portsmouth is not a requirement, an understanding of the local context would be advantageous.

As a Trustee, you will guide the Trust’s strategic direction, ensuring effective oversight and supporting our mission to deliver high-quality education across all our schools. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in local education and contribute to the success of a forward-looking Trust.

The Trust oversees two secondary settings, Admiral Lord Nelson School and Trafalgar School, as well as Mayfield School, which is a through-school serving pupils aged 4 to 16. Together, these schools form a close-knit community that values inclusion, ambition, and continuous improvement.

Since our formation, the Trust has built a strong reputation for partnership working, effective leadership, and steady school improvement. Each school retains its own identity while benefiting from the collective strength, shared expertise, and resources of the wider Trust. The focus is firmly on delivering high-quality teaching and learning, fostering aspiration, and ensuring that all students are well-prepared for the next stage of their education and beyond.

Underpinned by values of respect, responsibility, and resilience, Salterns Academy Trust is forward-looking and community-minded, working closely with local partners and families to make a lasting, positive difference. The Trust benefits from an experienced and dedicated leadership team, continues to build on its successes and strives to provide the very best outcomes for children and young people across Portsmouth.

About the role

Time commitment: 8 hours / 1 day a month

Trustees work collectively to provide strong governance, effective oversight, and constructive challenge to the executive team. You will use your professional expertise and strategic insight to help us maintain high standards of performance, financial sustainability, and educational excellence as it continues to evolve and expand.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight and governance as Salterns Academy Trust continues to develop into the primary education sector.
• Offer insights and guidance based on your experience to ensure the highest standards of teaching and learning.
• Support the development and implementation of policies that promote a nurturing and inclusive environment for primary school students.
• Collaborate with fellow trustees, the executive team, and school leaders to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
• Champion the Trust’s vision, mission, and values within the community and among stakeholders.
• Attend evening Board meetings (up to 6 per year) and committee meetings (up to 6 a year), as well as occasionally undertake school visits and meetings with senior leaders in

Who we are looking for

We are seeking individuals with the vision, integrity, and strategic insight to contribute to the continued success and growth of the Trust. The ideal candidate will bring professional expertise, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people. You do not need prior board experience; what matters most is the ability to think strategically, ask constructive questions, and share your experience in a way that supports the Trust’s development.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

• Strategic thinking skills with the ability to contribute to long-term planning and development.
• Strong commitment to educational equity and a passion for making a positive impact on children’s lives.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Professional expertise in areas such as Estates, IT and Facilities, Secondary Education, or Legal services, though other relevant backgrounds will also be considered.
• Integrity, independence of thought, and the confidence to both support and challenge constructively.

This is an opportunity to apply your skills and experience to help shape the future of a forward-looking, values-driven Trust.

Please click 'Apply’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th December

Join the board of YMCA and help its work supporting communities through training, wellbeing and social inclusion.

Location: London, WC1H

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 17th November

Who we are

Established in 1844, Central YMCA is the founding organisation of the global YMCA movement, now present in over 120 countries.

Central YMCA works at local, regional and national levels, providing high-quality education, training and qualifications. As one of the largest charity Independent Training Providers in the country and the holder of substantial contracts from the Department for Education, Central YMCA provides education and opportunities for employment for young people and adults, irrespective of their background and experience. We work with some of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, and we believe we can have the greatest impact for those falling through gaps in provision or struggling to engage with mainstream provision.

The sectors in which we work have been carefully selected to reflect the Charity’s commitment to supporting careers in areas that are essential for building strong communities. We deliver employability courses, qualifications and apprenticeships in Health and Fitness, Health and Social Care, Early Years and Education, Horticulture and Business Services. We work with key partners in each sector to promote our courses and amplify our reach.

Some of our work is strategically based in socially and economically disadvantaged communities; supporting the vulnerable and those on low incomes, those who have low prior attainment and are facing personal challenges, alongside those needing support through life transitions.

Through our awarding and end-point assessment organisation, Central YMCA also develops qualifications and learning and assessment resources to enable learners to start or develop their careers, predominantly in the physical activity and wellness sector.

Founded in the heart of London in 1844, Central YMCA is the world’s very first YMCA. For over 180 years, we’ve been inspiring people to reach their full potential in body, mind, and spirit. From pioneering youth education and fitness programmes to supporting communities through training, wellbeing, and social inclusion, Central YMCA has always stood for positive change.

Today, we continue that proud tradition by offering recognised training and qualifications, and a range of community programmes that empower people of all ages and backgrounds. We believe in opportunity for everyone — no matter your starting point. Whether you want to improve your health, gain new skills, or make a difference, Central YMCA is here to help you grow stronger, together.

Central YMCA — A historic legacy. A modern movement. Your community.

About the roles

Chair of Trustees

As Chair, you will provide inspirational leadership and clear direction to the Board, ensuring effective governance, long-term sustainability, and strategic excellence across all that we do. You will play a pivotal role in supporting and constructively challenging our CEO and senior leadership team to deliver lasting social impact and drive performance across the organisation.

This is a rare opportunity to help guide one of the most respected charities in the UK as we continue our mission to break barriers to life-enhancing opportunities through education, training, health, and wellbeing.

As Chair, you will:

• Lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that governance is robust, inclusive, and forward-looking.
• Provide strategic oversight, helping shape the Charity’s vision, policy, and direction.
• Champion Central YMCA’s mission and values, ensuring decisions are aligned with our charitable purpose.
• Support and hold to account the CEO and senior team, ensuring effective delivery of the organisation’s aims.
• Represent Central YMCA externally – across the YMCA movement and with key stakeholders, partners, and policy makers.
• Oversee Board development, succession planning, and the recruitment of new Trustees to maintain a diverse and skilled team.

Chair of the Resources Committee

The Chair of the Resources Committee leads on financial stewardship, ensuring the Charity’s funds and resources are managed responsibly, transparently, and in line with our charitable objectives and legal obligations. The Committee oversees finance, investments, HR, IT, and other resource-related areas.

As Committee Chair, you will:

• Lead the Resources Committee, ensuring meetings are well-organised, effective, and aligned with the Charity’s governance framework.
• Provide strategic guidance and oversight on finance, staffing, and resource allocation.
• Advise the Board on the financial implications of major decisions and long-term plans.
• Lead the annual budget review and monitor performance against financial plans and reserves policies.
• Ensure robust management of investments, reserves, and overall financial sustainability.
• Work collaboratively with the Chief Executive and senior team to support effective resource planning.
• Liaise with the Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee to strengthen financial controls and risk management.
• Support the preparation and presentation of annual accounts, ensuring clarity and transparency.
• Keep the Board informed of its financial duties and promote openness in public reporting.

Safeguarding Trustee

The Safeguarding Trustee works closely with the CEO and Designated Safeguarding Leads to provide assurance to the Board that safeguarding remains a strategic priority across the Charity. They ensure our safeguarding framework is robust, effective, and fully compliant with legal, regulatory, and sector expectations.

As Safeguarding Trustee, you will:

• Provide assurance to the Board on the effectiveness of safeguarding practices and compliance with statutory requirements.
• Offer guidance and expertise in developing and monitoring the Charity’s safeguarding, child protection, and Prevent strategies, policies, and action plans.
• Ensure safeguarding considerations are embedded in all strategic decisions and risk management processes.
• Champion a strong, transparent, and inclusive safeguarding culture aligned with our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commitments.
• Ensure arrangements meet legislative and regulatory expectations, including Ofsted and statutory guidance such as Keeping Children Safe in Education.
• Work with trustees and senior staff to embed safeguarding across all learning environments and youth-focused provision.
• Monitor the implementation of safeguarding and Prevent action plans, escalating risks or concerns to the Board where necessary.
• Provide assurance that safeguarding concerns are reported, escalated, and addressed appropriately, with clear routes for staff, learners, and the public to raise issues.
• Represent Central YMCA’s safeguarding commitment externally, promoting best practice with partners, funders, and sector bodies.
• Attend Board meetings, relevant sub-committees, and safeguarding briefings, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding and Prevent developments.
• Support transparency by promoting public visibility of safeguarding arrangements, including statements and reporting routes.

Who we are looking for

Chair of Trustees

We are seeking a Chair who:

• Brings a strong commitment to Central YMCA’s values and purpose.
• Demonstrates inclusive, strategic, and inspiring leadership.
• Has experience of governance, either in a charity, public, or corporate setting.
• Is confident working with senior executives to balance support with appropriate challenge.
• Has the ability to represent Central YMCA with credibility and integrity across a wide range of audiences.
• Brings strong networks and the ability to connect the organisation to new opportunities and partnerships.
• Proven experience in governance — ideally as a Chair, Trustee, or Non-Executive Director — within the charity sector, social impact organisations, or relevant industries.
• The ability to chair meetings effectively, foster collaboration, and build consensus.
• The confidence to make informed decisions under pressure, even when challenging majority opinions, and to provide constructive challenge and influence at Board level.

Chair of Resources Committee

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A recognised financial qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or substantial senior financial management experience.
• A strong understanding of education and charity finance, SORP, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical and evaluation skills, with the ability to exercise good judgement and interpret complex information.
• The ability to chair meetings effectively, foster collaboration, and build consensus.
• A solid understanding of governance principles, business models, finance, funding, and charity regulation compliance.
• The interpersonal skills to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Safeguarding Trustee

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Experience of overseeing safeguarding arrangements in an education or youth care setting (including children’s social services or local authority), with direct experience managing safeguarding issues affecting young people aged 14+.
• Strong working knowledge of government safeguarding, Prevent, and child protection strategies, as well as safer recruitment practices.
• Familiarity with Charity Commission guidance on safeguarding and governance expectations for trustees.
• Commitment to promoting and supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all areas of the Charity’s work.
• Experience of working at a senior level in post-16 or vocational education, or within a local authority involved in education policy or strategy.

Why join Central YMCA?

At Central YMCA, we’ve been changing lives for over 180 years. Today, we continue to support people from all walks of life through education, employability, health, and wellbeing programmes. Joining us as Chair offers a unique chance to shape the next chapter in this proud history – ensuring we remain as relevant, inclusive, and impactful as ever.

If you are an accomplished leader who believes in the power of community and lifelong opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 17th November. 

About the organisation

Operating across multiple campuses in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey, we are dedicated to delivering first-class education and training opportunities for young people and adults alike. We take pride in the diversity of our provision and the communities we serve. To ensure we continue to succeed and build on our quality, partnerships, and impact, we have developed a clear five-year plan to achieve our ambitious goals.

Our 2024–2029 Strategy for Outstanding, focused on five key objectives—Growth, High Quality, Personalised Learning, Strategic Alliances, and Financial Health, commits our colleges to driving transformative progress and achieving excellence across all areas of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group.

We have clearly defined our vision, purpose, and values to ensure our strategic objectives closely align with a student-centred approach and reflect our core principles.

Our Vision

Our students will be recognised locally and nationally for their positive impact on the community and industries in which they choose to work.

Our Purpose

To inspire our students to gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to be resilient and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Our Values

Excellence: A culture of creativity, high expectations, ambition and aspiration. Respect: Fairness, courtesy, mutual respect and our environment. Integrity: Honesty, openness and trust at the heart of College life. Diversity: Celebrating diversity and inclusivity as a key to our success

About the role

Time Commitment: Termly commitment of circa 15 hours.

The Windsor Forest Colleges Group Corporation is the overarching body that governs Slough & Langley College, BCA, Strode’s College, and Windsor College. The Corporation was formed following the formal merger between East Berkshire College and Strode’s College in Egham on 9 May 2017 and then the subsequent merger with BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture) on 1 August 2022. The Corporation Board, which is a non-executive board, meets at key stages throughout the academic year and is supported through sub-committees. These are as follows:

Audit Committee

Resources Committee

Remuneration Committee

Strategy, Governance & Search Committee

Quality and Curriculum Committee

Capital Development Steering Group

The Board and Executive Team share a strong, collaborative relationship built on mutual trust, shared ambition, and common goals. This positive and open environment encourages transparency, rigour, and dynamic discussion—where challenge is welcomed, difficult questions are asked, and diverse perspectives are valued.

This healthy dynamic underpins strong governance and supports bold, innovative thinking across the organisation.

Who we are looking for

The Corporation seeks to welcome new members who share our passion for education and our commitment to The Windsor Forest Colleges Group’s purpose.

As a Governor, you will work closely with our Group Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Gillian May, our Chair of the Corporation, Jo Croft, and the wider Board to help steer the Group’s strategic direction.

We’re particularly interested in hearing from leaders from a range of sectors who can bring valuable insight, offer constructive challenge, and contribute meaningfully to our discussions. Your expertise will help ensure effective governance, scrutiny, and support as we continue to grow and innovate.

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in the following areas:

1. Audit and Finance
   We are seeking a qualified accountant, ideally with audit experience, to join our Audit Committee and contribute.
2. Risk Management or Cyber Security
   We are particularly interested in hearing from senior professionals with strategic expertise in risk management, those with responsibility for risk oversight, and/or individuals with a specialised focus on cybersecurity.
3. Higher Education
   We are also seeking individuals with experience in higher education. This may include expertise in academic leadership, finance and estates, IT and digital, or curriculum development and transformation.

If you are a committed, experienced professional passionate about supporting education and shaping the future of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please click 'Apply’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 1st December

Worldwide SHEroes
We empower women from underserved communities to lead through a 10-month global mentoring program.

Women from marginalized communities face deep-rooted barriers to leadership, including restricted access to opportunities, limited role models, and exclusion from decision-making spaces, often compounded by gender discrimination and cultural norms. These systemic hurdles silence valuable talent, perpetuating cycles of inequality and poverty, and depriving communities of necessary insight and innovation.

Worldwide SHEroes unlocks this potential through its structured 10-month global mentoring program built on the pillars of Education, Exposure, and Empowerment. The program connects aspiring female leaders (mentees) from underserved backgrounds with a diverse, global network of mentors. This setup provides mentees with the necessary tools, confidence, and support—acting as allies, amplifiers, and advocates—to navigate challenges and acquire agency. By amplifying Her voice and closing the leadership gap, the initiative aims to create a ripple effect of transformation, fostering a more equitable world.

Learning and Development Role

Worldwide SHEroes is looking for experienced professional in program and learning design, for our mentees and mentors. We want to provide an innovative, exciting and impactful learning journey for both. 

This would include :
- producing E-Books / video content 
- updating our Learning Academy 
- developing webinars and panel discussions 
- assessing the evaluations to understand user experience 
- establishing an Alumni program
- refining presentations or onboarding, graduations etc

We are open to new and innovative ideas, if they improve our user experience and produce great outcomes.

Minimum Hours per Week:

7-9 hours per week

Duration:

3-5 months

About Gresham College
Gresham College is a charity providing high-quality, free education to the public across a broad range of subjects. For more than 400 years, the College has stimulated a love of learning, intellectual curiosity, academic rigour, professional expertise, and freedom of expression.

Originally based in the City of London, Gresham lectures are now also streamed online worldwide and have attracted more than 51 million views. To watch, please visit our website or search for us on YouTube.

The College is now in year five of an exciting five-year plan, with the primary aim of increasing and broadening the audience we reach. Working at Gresham College is hugely rewarding due to the breadth of subjects covered and the intellectual reputation of our speakers.

Role Description

Are you highly organised, tech-savvy, and detail-oriented? We’re looking for a reliable volunteer to support our Content Curator in auditing our extensive digital archive of over 3,000 lecture videos.

Time Commitment

Minimum 4 hours per week for at least two months.

Flexible working hours and remote working available.

Initial training period (first two weeks): must be available for half a day per week in our central London office.

What You’ll Be Doing

Your primary responsibility will be auditing our online video archive, including reviewing lecture web pages to ensure they contain all key assets:

• Video recordings
• Audio files
• Transcripts
• Lecture descriptions

This role involves repetitive tasks and requires accuracy, consistency, and mental stamina.

Following the audit, you may also help with:

• Writing short lecture descriptions where missing
• Sourcing or assigning appropriate imagery for lecture pages
• Other general content and data management tasks as needed

What We’re Looking For

• Reliable and committed; able to meet deadlines and agreed hours
• Highly IT literate, with strong Excel skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Comfortable with repetitive, screen-based work
• Good communication skills; able to work both independently and collaboratively
• A strong sense of confidentiality and data security

Training and Support

Full training will be provided, and you will be supported throughout by our friendly team.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Gain valuable experience in digital content management
• Contribute to improving access to a unique archive of educational resources
• Develop skills relevant to digital curation, content auditing, and library/information services

Expenses

Out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed if agreed in advance. Receipts must be provided.

Equal Opportunities

Gresham College encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds.
We are committed to fairness, consistency, and transparency in selection decisions. Panel members follow principles of equality of opportunity and fair selection.

Become a  Member of our Governing Body or a Co-opted Member of one of its Committees

Barton Peveril College invites applications for the voluntary, non-remunerated roles of Corporation Governor or Co-opted Member of one of the Corporation's Committees.

We seek committed individuals who possess a dedication to Sixth Form Education and the development of young people within the Eastleigh, Southampton, and surrounding areas. 

This is a unique opportunity for residents to contribute directly to the strategic direction and governance of a leading educational institution.

About Barton Peveril College

Barton Peveril College is the largest sixth form college in the country by student numbers, serving over 5,000 16-18 year olds and holding an Outstanding judgment across all four key areas by OFSTED.

Our mission is to foster a strong community committed to the highest standards of effort, achievement, and ambition, preparing students to thrive as positive citizens in a complex society. The College maintains a strong financial performance, evidenced by an "Outstanding" financial health score, which has facilitated over £30 million in strategic capital investment over the last decade.

• Students: In excess of 5,000 16-18 year olds studying A Levels and BTEC courses.

• Outcomes: More than 80% progress to Higher Education annually; the majority of the remainder enter Apprenticeships or Employment.

• Reputation: Judged Outstanding across all four key OFSTED judgments: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

The Role and Responsibilities

The appointment is primarily strategic in nature, focused on providing robust oversight, direction, and scrutiny, rather than day-to-day management.

Key responsibilities include:

• Setting the College's strategic direction and ensuring compliance with all regulatory and funding requirements.

• Scrutinising performance and holding the Executive leadership team to account as a 'critical friend.'

• Engaging in discussions concerning strategic planning, financial oversight, and the monitoring of teaching and learning quality.

• Reviewing, understanding, and challenging reports prepared by the College Leadership team prior to and during formal meetings.

We are committed to appointing a diverse range of individuals. Whilst previous experience in governance is not a prerequisite, candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest and passion for contributing to the betterment of the local community and enabling students to fulfil their potential. 

Required Areas of Expertise

We welcome individuals with varied skills and experience.  At this time we are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with professional expertise in the following domains:

• Finance;

• Information Technology (particularly Cyber Security and/or Artificial Intelligence); or

• Secondary or Higher Education

Potential exists to progress to become a Committee Chair or Vice Chair of the Corporation.

Time Commitment and Logistics

Commitment

Voluntary and non-remunerated; reasonable travel expenses are reimbursed.

Term of Office

Governor: Four years; Committee Member: Three years.

Meetings

2-3 Monday evenings per term on site at the College in Eastleigh, generally lasting 2-3 hours.  Online attendance is not generally permitted but will be considered in specific circumstances.

Preparation

An estimated 2-3 hours of advance reading is required for each meeting.

Full Governors serve on the main Corporation and at least one dedicated Committee (e.g., Search and Governance, Standards, Finance and Employment, Audit). Co-opted Members serve solely on a Committee initially, with potential progression to a full Governorship within 6-12 months.

Candidates are also strongly encouraged to attend additional College events and departmental visits each term.

Application and Recruitment Process

Submission of Interest

Interested candidates should apply by submitting the following documents.

1. A brief Curriculum Vitae (CV).

2. A Letter of Interest (not exceeding 250 words) detailing suitability for the role, relevant experience, and any particular specialism or interest.

There is no fixed deadline for applications. Due to administration by volunteers, applicants should allow up to 10 working days for a response.

Recruitment Stages and Prerequisites to Appointment

All applicants will be invited to the College to meet with the Chair of Governors, the Principal, the Clerk, and an existing Governor. This process is intentionally informal, serving as an opportunity for mutual assessment and for candidates to tour the College facilities.

Safeguarding and Compliance: All appointed Governors are required to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, annual Safeguarding training, and commit to the College Code of Conduct, which incorporates the 'Seven Principles of Public Life' (Nolan Principles).

Support and Further Information

New Governors receive comprehensive onboarding and support from the College Clerk, including access to internal and external training events.

Details regarding the current Corporation and its function are available on the College website.

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Should you have a disability and require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please contact us confidentially to discuss the steps that can be taken. Barton Peveril College is fully committed to the principles of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 25 January 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 26 January and 6 February 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 17 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams))

• 3 March 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 March 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are reimbursed
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Please note you must be over 18 to volunteer with us.

Rising Capacities for Children Africa (RICCA)

Rising Capacities for Children Africa (RICCA) tackles child poverty in rural Kenya, especially in Kirinyaga County, by creating inclusive, child-friendly learning environments. Through the Ricca Afterschool Center, children aged 6–17 access personalized support, mentorship, and engaging programs in arts, sports, agriculture, and digital literacy. These activities foster academic success, creativity, social skills, and life competencies while making learning fun and accessible. RICCA also works with schools to improve teacher quality, infrastructure, and resources, and engages parents in the process. By bridging rural–urban gaps and promoting intercultural dialogue, RICCA empowers communities, protects children’s rights, and breaks cycles of poverty through education.

After-School Curriculum Design Specialist

About RICCA

RICCA is a grassroots organization in rural Kenya working to create equal learning opportunities for marginalized children in public primary schools. We run after-school centers that provide safe, creative spaces where children can learn through play, storytelling, and exploration — not just exams.
RICCA was founded by Kenneth Gitari, whose own journey from a small rural village inspired him to reimagine education so that every child, no matter their background, can dream, learn, and thrive.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Curriculum Design Specialist (Volunteer) to help us strengthen and structure our after-school curriculum framework. This role is ideal for someone passionate about child-centered education, play-based learning, and creating real impact in underserved communities.

What You’ll Do

• Design and structure an engaging after-school curriculum that builds literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
• Integrate play-based, creative, and culturally relevant learning approaches for children in rural settings.
• Collaborate with our team to develop fun, practical lesson ideas and facilitator guides.
• Support the training of local facilitators on effective, inclusive teaching methods.
• Develop adaptable learning materials and frameworks that community educators can easily use.

Who You Are

• You have experience in Curriculum Development, Education Design, or Child Development.
• You’re familiar with alternative learning approaches such as project-led or experiential learning.
• You’re creative, resourceful, and passionate about education equity.
• Experience with rural or resource-limited settings is a strong plus.

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to shape an impactful education model reaching children in rural Kenya.
• Collaboration with a passionate grassroots team creating lasting change.
• Recognition and exposure through RICCA’s website, newsletters and a letter of appreciation.

Minimum Hours per Week:

4-6 hours per week

Duration:

1-2 months

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 25 January 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 26 January and 6 February 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 17 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams))

• 3 March 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 March 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

More about this role:

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are reimbursed
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Please note you must be over 18 to volunteer with us.

Join Solihull College and University Centre and use your expertise in capital development, strategy or construction to support the College as a Governor, as they inspire everyone to succeed.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 3rd December.

Solihull College & University Centre is a large general further education college with sites in central Solihull, North Solihull and in Stratford-upon-Avon.

We have over 10,000 students and a core population of 16–19-year-olds, the majority of whom come from Birmingham and the West Midlands. We offer a diverse provision across A levels, T levels, apprenticeships and higher education, providing excellent pathways for all our students.

About the role.

The Corporation is comparable to a board of non-executive directors. It is composed of members from the local community, stakeholders, students and staff members. Working closely with the Principal, the Corporation is responsible for approving the College’s mission statement, establishing the College’s strategy and maintaining the overall framework of policies and procedures within which the College operates. Governors help the college to maintain a long-term focus whilst working on its shorter-term goals and plans. The day-to-day management of the college is very much the responsibility of the Principal and the executive management team.

Appointed individuals will need to attend Corporation and Committee meetings throughout the year, as well as strategic planning, training, and development activities.

We estimate that our Governors dedicate around 10 – 15 hours per month (depending on their roles and membership of committees) to their roles which includes Corporation meetings, Special Interest Groups, Financial Oversight Group Committee meetings, two Governors Development mornings per year, online Briefings, Mandatory training, external events/training and supporting the College with Learning Visits and/or Student Focus Groups, mentoring, link governor roles.

Who we are looking for.

The successful candidate will have a passion for education, be committed to the College and its values, and understand the importance of education to all learners and the wider community.

We are particularly looking to engage the following areas of expertise:

• Capital development
• Strategic property development
• Construction

Whilst previous governance experience is welcomed, it is not essential. All new Governors will be supported by our Director of Corporate Governance Risk and Compliance, Sam Bromwich, with a comprehensive induction and training process and ongoing support thereafter.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 3rd December.

Can you support our trust in its innovative approach?  Do you share our values of inclusion, innovation & impact? Are you excited about Educational and Operational Excellence. Could you be an #EMATter? What would it mean for you?

What will you be doing?

EMAT needs a committed and enthusiastic trustee, with experience in holding senior leaders to account whilst sharing their professional experience and expertise.  Our recent skills audit shows our board to have a broad and deep skill base and we are now looking to build upon that with colleagues that have specific interest and or experience in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and / or Safeguarding. 

Any new governance #EMATters will ideally be local to, or have strong links to Northamptonshire and / or Milton Keynes and will have capacity to attend at least 6 x 2 hour meetings in person at our central office in Grange Park (Hybrid attendance is available when necessary).   We would particularly welcome those that have additional capacity to then attend opportunities throughout the academic year, to really get to know the trust, it's academies and all those that work and learn within them. 

What are we looking for?

We would welcome applications from committed and enthusiastic members of our local community (Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes) who have a passion for education and opportunities for young people.

We are particularly interested in those with lived or professional experience of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and / or Safeguarding. Previous experience of governance is not a pre-requisite but is welcomed. 

Trustees must be confident to speak within a group and express their opinion and share their expertise.

What difference will you make?

As a member of our board you will support and shape our work and strategic direction, as well as help us achieve our purpose that every child will be the best that they can be. 

In joining a well established and effective board you will contribute to supporting our trust in its innovative approach. We have exciting projects focusing on inclusion and equality, that will benefit from your experience as well as an ongoing cycle of continuing improvement and pursuit of Educational and Operational Excellence. Could you be an #EMATter?  What would it mean for you?

Our trustees have a trust level responsibility but are strongly encouraged to network and interact with our local advisory boards so that they have a strong understanding of each of our academies when discussing and challenging finance, risk, safeguarding, teaching and learning and 'beyond the classroom' services.  

Before you apply

Please express your interest through Reach in the first instance.  We can then have an informal conversation, either in person or on teams about the role, before we ask you to complete an application form and our safer recruitment process.