Trustees volunteer roles in jersey, trinity

Shape the future of character education

Are you a Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, or senior school leader passionate about developing young people’s character? Do you want to use your expertise to shape an innovative education charity while also benefiting your own school? If so, we invite you to join Being The Cure as our Education Trustee and play a key role in refining and expanding our impact in schools.

About us

At Being The Cure, we believe education should go beyond academics—it should build Kindness, Honesty, and Humility, empowering young people to become tomorrow’s heroes. Our Saturday Schools and in-school programmes are grounded in research and gaining attention, including interest from UCL. Now, we need an experienced school leader to help us ensure our programmes truly meet schools' needs.

Why this role could be right for you

�� Flexible & realistic commitment – We understand school leaders are busy! Meetings are designed to fit around your schedule, with remote options available and minimal paperwork.

�� Directly benefit your own school – Gain expert insights into character education to enhance your curriculum and explore opportunities for your school to pilot our programmes or receive support.

�� Have strategic influence – This is more than a governance role. You will directly shape our education programmes, ensuring they are relevant, impactful, and aligned with the realities of school life.

�� Join a diverse & supportive board – Work alongside charity sector leaders, school business managers, and corporate consultants, all driven by a shared commitment to education and social impact.

Your role as our Education Trustee

As a trustee, you will act as a critical friend to our CEO and education team, helping us refine our curriculum and engagement with schools. Specifically, you will:

✅ Challenge and support our CEO to ensure our curriculum is evidence-informed and aligned with school needs.

✅ Help shape our engagement strategy, making it easier for schools to access and benefit from our programmes.

✅ Advise on best practices in education and share insights from your leadership experience.

✅ Support the scaling of our impact, ensuring our growth is sustainable and beneficial for schools.

Time commitment & flexibility

We respect the demanding schedules of school leaders, so we structure our commitments with maximum flexibility:

�� Induction – Approx. 6 hours to familiarise yourself with our programme and approach.

�� Ongoing - 6 hours on a quarterly basis including:

Quarterly Education & Safeguarding Committee – 1-hour remote meeting, with up to 1 hour of prep.

Quarterly Full Board Meeting – 2-hour in-person meeting (ideally, but remote options available), with up to 2 hours of prep. We encourage in-person attendance as we socialise as a board afterward, but we fully understand when this isn’t possible.

�� Additional support – As available, based on your interest and capacity.

What we’re looking for:

✔ Experience in school leadership, with a strong understanding of how schools operate.

✔ Teaching experience, ideally recent, to ensure familiarity with classroom realities.

✔ Commitment to our mission of empowering young people through character education.

➕ We'd love it if you also had knowledge of or experience with schools in Newham and it's neighbouring boroughs, Bedford, or Luton.

Next steps

We know committing to a trustee role is a big decision and we’re happy to have an informal chat about the role, answer any questions. After we've had a chat we'll also be happy to invite you to visit one of our schools to see our impact firsthand.

We specialise in supporting people with visual impairment and complex needs in a range of services including Care Homes and Supported Living. Can you help support us in making a difference in the lives of the people we support?

What will you be doing?

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced Board of Trustees. As a member of the Board, you will play a vital role in steering and supporting the Group. The Board is responsible for providing strategic direction, ensuring we meet regulatory requirements, and overseeing the work of the staff team, ensuring the Group's efficient administration and financial stability.

What are we looking for?

Ideally, we are looking for a finance professional with experience in accounting or financial analysis, who possesses expertise in financial principles and practices. Having a good understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting that will help support our strategic goals and direction. 

What difference will you make?

We are constantly striving to make a difference to people’s lives through the provision of aspirational services for people with sensory and other specialist needs. We want to enable people to live fulfilled lives in excellent quality accommodation, and our whole philosophy is based around person-centred principles. Your contribution as an experienced finance professional will help us maintain a forward looking approach to establishing financial stability and governance. 

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance and provide a covering letter detailing why you are interested in this role.

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.

Hartlebury Parish Hall was built in 1952 with the support and effort of the whole community. The parish hall is a charitable institution, run as a non-profit making organisation by a voluntary committee. It is a key focal point for events in the village and is close to St James parish church, Hartlebury Castle and the White Hart village pub.

The role of Treasurer is an important one in our team. We require someone experienced in managing accounts, used to excel spreadsheets and who comes with a friendly and community spirited mindset.

The work involves close liaison with our bookings secretary and we also have an excellent Trustee who helps with monetary issues(but works full time). Our bookings system is 'Hallmaster' and it may be helpful to be acquainted with this , but not at all essential. 

We are a good team brimming with ideas, the accounts are currently very tidy, so the applicant would not be coming in to chaos! 

Purpose: 

Charity law requires all charity trustees to prepare accounts for their charity. An independent examination is a form of external scrutiny that provides a limited check on specific matters.
Registered and excepted charities with income less than £25k must have an Independent Examination unless the accounts are audited. 

Requirement:

An independent person whom the trustees reasonably believe to have the requisite ability and practical experience to carry out a competent examination of the accounts.
Must be a member of one of the accountancy bodies listed in the Charities Act

Key tasks:

Well verse with Commission’s Directions and guidance as independent Examiner 
To provide an independent scrutiny of the accounts and, in this way, help maintain public trust and confidence in charities.
Ensure; No evidence was found of a lack of accounting records; Nor of the accounts failing to reflect those records; Nor of the accounts failing to comply with the relevant legislation
Liaising with the trustees to ensure the accounting records are available 
Agreeing responsibilities with the trustees, for example, who will prepare the accounts and file them with the Commission
Agreeing a timetable for the examination with the trustees 
Ensuring the examination takes place at a time when trustees and key staff are available to answer any questions that may arise

Key results/objectives:

At the conclusion of the independent examination the examiner makes a report to the charity trustees. Charity law requires the examiner’s report to comment on three specific things: 
the accounting records kept, whether the accounts agree with those records,  and whether the format of the accounts is correct. 

Reporting to: Joy Mason - CEO

As a member of the Finance, Audit and Risk (FA&R) Committee, you will be expected to provide FFL with scrutiny and oversight, with particular focus on risk within audit & finance. You will support the Co-Chairs of the FA&R and The Foundation ’ s Co-Chairs and wider Board to oversee all the financial and audit-related risks of the charity in line with good practice, and legal obligations of the Charities Act, providing the wider board with advice, recommendations and reassurances that all financial processes and related risk controls are operating effectively. The Finance & Risk Trustee will ensure that effective risks for financial sustainability, measures, controls and procedures are put in place and operate effectively. You will be expected to be an active board member and may also be asked to use your skill set, interests and wider stakeholder contacts for other duties such as networking, fundraising and charity promotion/ambassadorial commitments

Join a charity that’s been empowering local, physically disabled people for over 30 years.

About Disability Peterborough

Disability Peterborough, legally registered as DIAL Peterborough, is a user-led charity dedicated to supporting physically disabled individuals and their families in Peterborough and the surrounding areas.

What will you be doing?

As a Board member of Disability Peterborough, you will serve as both a Director of the Company and a Trustee of the Charity. As Treasurer, you’ll play a key role in helping us manage our finances responsibly and sustainably, ensuring we can keep delivering vital services to physically disabled people in Peterborough. Your expertise will help us make informed decisions, plan confidently for the future, and safeguard the resources that make our work possible.

We have a contract with a local accountancy firm who use Xero software to prepare monthly management reports and the annual return. The accountancy firm also manage the wage runs each month. The Treasurer’s input is therefore primarily at a governance and advisory level rather than day-to-day financial administration.

The estimated time commitment is approximately 4 hours per month. This includes attending Board meetings, reviewing documents, and carrying out occasional follow-up tasks.

We are open to remote candidates for the Treasurer position, recognizing that much of the work can be done behind the scenes.

Please request the candidate pack for a full list of responsibilities

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking someone with the following attributes:

· Commitment to the charity’s mission and values

· Ability to analyse financial reports, budgets, service proposals, and contracts, and assess their financial impact

· Strong teamwork skills with an understanding of collective decision-making and responsibilities

· Excellent organizational skills; able to work remotely using own initiative and as part of a wider team

· Sound, independent judgment and creativity, with willingness to make tough or unpopular recommendations

· Understanding or willingness to learn legal duties and responsibilities of the treasurer and trustee roles

· Previous finance experience or a good understanding of financial management, preferably in the charitable sector

· Willingness to provide occasional advice and support to staff and volunteers via email, Zoom, or phone

No Prior Experience Required: Whether you have prior board experience or not, we welcome all applicants. What matters most is your passion, commitment, and willingness to contribute.

What difference will you make?

As a trustee, you can help us continue delivering essential services that improve independence, well-being, and access to rights for thousands of physically disabled people every year. Your input will help us:

· Develop and sustain life-changing programs like our Handyperson Service, Wellbeing Calls, and Shopmobility.

· Advocate for policy change and champion the rights of disabled individuals locally and nationally.

· Ensure that our services remain relevant, inclusive, and informed by those who use them.

By lending your time, insight, and passion, you directly support our mission to create a society where disabled people are valued equally, listened to, and included. You won’t just be shaping strategy - you'll be changing lives.

BRANCH TRUSTEE – TREASURER

RSPCA Lincs Mid, NE and Lincoln

Are you passionate about animal welfare? We are looking for an enthusiastic person who understands charity finance to support us in our mission to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and alleviate the suffering of animals.

We are looking for someone to volunteer as a Branch Treasurer for our **Lincoln Mid, NE and Lincoln Branch.** This role would play a vital role in supporting the Branches affairs so that it is governed and managed effectively, whilst continually having animal welfare at the forefront of their mind.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Treasurer

•  Implement and maintain sound financial systems.
• Take a lead role in ensuring the committee set annual financial budgets and plan the branch income and expenditure.
• Provide a written financial report for every branch meeting.
• Liaise with auditors/independent examiners regarding the production of the annual branch accounts and the treasurer’s report.
• Maintain control of all bank accounts as authorised by the committee.
• Execute and operate branch committee financial decisions and act as branch co-signatory. Maintain control over all branch paying-in books and receipt books and to ensure their correct use.
• In the absence of a branch box secretary, to assume responsibility for the branch network of collection boxes.
•  Arrange payment of the annual branch contribution to the appropriate RSPCA fund.
• Coordinate financial control of all branch fundraising activities.
• Make quarterly VAT returns to headquarters promptly.
•  Ensure the production, monitoring and annual review of the branch’s financial risk management strategy in accordance with the charity commission’s requirements.
•  Liaise with branch officers, branch support specialist and Branch finance co-ordinator on Financial affairs as necessary and alert them immediately to any possible difficulties or irregularities.
•   Ensure the retention and safekeeping of all branch financial documentation for the appropriate time as set by the charity commission.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

• Time Commitment: You will be able to commit to attending monthly committee meetings, each lasting approximately three hours.
• Financial Oversight: Between meetings, you will carry out key financial responsibilities including preparing financial reports for the committee, monitoring the annual budget set by the trustees, and ensuring financial activities align with agreed targets.
•  Professional Qualifications: You will hold, or be actively working towards, a recognised professional finance qualification such as CIMA or ACCA.
•  Charity Finance Knowledge: Ideally, you will have experience within the charity sector, with a strong understanding of areas such as Gift Aid, Charity Commission reporting requirements, and the management of restricted funds.
•  Financial Systems Experience: Proficiency in using financial software is essential, with experience in Xero being highly desirable as it is the platform currently in use.
• ·Regulatory Compliance: You should have a sound working knowledge of HMRC regulations, including PAYE, Employer’s National Insurance contributions, and VAT rules applicable to charities.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Treasurer

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
•  Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
•   A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our trustee roles are subject to an informal interview and opportunity to meet the board, which comprises of 12 members. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees. Trustees are required to be, or be willing to become, members of the RSPCA, supporting the values and mission of this respected charity.

The Board at Furness Education Trust, located in Cumbria, is seeking two new Trustees possessing extensive leadership experience in an education setting (primary or secondary). The Trust has seven schools and an annual budget of £16.3m.

Furness Education Trust (FET) is a seven-school Trust based in Barrow-in-Furness. The Trust originally grew out of Furness Academy and now includes two secondary schools and five primary schools. All academies in the Trust are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding,’ except for Walney School, which joined the Trust in January 2025 with a ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement. Walney School was previously part of another Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), and when that MAT closed, the Department for Education (DfE) asked FET to take over the school due to the Trust’s capacity to provide support.

While Furness Academy is relatively large and oversubscribed, Walney School is smaller, with room to expand and accommodate more pupils. The Trust is actively working to encourage increased pupil intake at Walney. As the two secondary schools are less than three miles apart, there is an opportunity to attract more students to Walney, particularly as it moves onto a firm trajectory of improvement.

FET also supports small rural primary schools with fewer than 90 pupils and mixed-age classes. The Trust firmly believes that these schools play a vital role in their communities and is committed to maintaining their quality and sustainability.

Furness Education Trust benefits from the sponsorship and active support of BAE Systems, with several of its Trustees holding senior roles within the organisation. The Trust is also exploring innovative curriculum opportunities at Walney School, particularly in modern engineering and digital skills, to align with the region’s workforce needs. Additionally, FET is fostering collaboration with George Hastwell School, a neighbouring special school, reinforcing its commitment to regional partnerships and inclusive education.

The Trust’s Requirements

Furness Education Trust is seeking two experienced educational professionals with expertise in primary and/or secondary education to join its board. Both appointees will serve on the Quality of Education & Standards Committee, with the expectation that one may take on the role of committee chair following the planned departure of the current chair. The trust is looking for individuals who can provide both support and challenge to ensure the highest standards across all its academies.

Ideal candidates will have senior leadership experience across multiple schools, whether within a multi-academy trust, a local authority, or as part of a school improvement initiative. This may include executive leadership roles, school improvement expertise, or consultancy work with a proven track record of driving educational excellence. While familiarity with the Ofsted inspection framework is beneficial, formal inspector training is not required.

The Trust’s governance structure includes three committees, including the Quality of Education & Standards Committee. New Trustees will be expected to attend all main Trust Board meetings, which take place four times a year (September, December, March and July), as well as meetings of the Quality of Education & Standards Committee.

Meetings are typically held in person at Furness Academy on Wednesdays at 4.30 pm and last approximately two hours. While in-person attendance is preferred, the Trust provides remote access when necessary.

All new Trustees will receive an induction programme supported by the governance professional and the Trust’s governance partner, Judicium. The induction programme includes an introductory visit and meeting, training on GovernorHub, essential reading such as role descriptors and the code of conduct, and an introduction to the National Governance Association training programme. Additionally, all new trustees will be provided with access to Governors for Schools’ ‘The First 100 Days as a Trustee’ eLearning module.

This is an opportunity to contribute strategically to a well-regarded Trust that is recognised by the DfE for its capacity and expertise. FET values collaboration and innovation, working closely with BAE Systems and local education providers to enhance curriculum provision and drive regional educational improvement. Trustees will play a key role in shaping the future of the Trust, supporting school improvement efforts, and ensuring that all children receive the highest quality education.

If you are an experienced educational leader looking for a meaningful way to give back to the education sector, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding role.

We are currently seeking two trustees and a member – a role akin to that of a shareholder – to join the respective boards of Achieve and Learnt Trust, a trust of two schools, with an annual budget of £14m.

Achieve and Learn is a two-school trust that grew out of Altrincham College (an 11–18 academy in Trafford) and Reddish Vale High School (an 11–16 academy in Stockport). Achieve and Learn Trust is going through a period of change, making this an ideal time to join and make a real difference to the trust’s future, particularly in supporting improvements at Reddish Vale High School. You are likely to join the trustees or members along with others, meaning there would be mutual support as you gain an understanding of this developing trust. The expansion of Altrincham College is a relatively rare opportunity to oversee future developments. The trust is developing its central team and the services it provides, giving new Trustees the chance to contribute to strategic decisions that will shape the trust’s future over the next few years.

Altrincham College is a very popular school that is consistently oversubscribed (last judged by Ofsted as ‘Good’ in May 2022). Trafford Local Authority is keen for the school to grow further, and there are plans for an extension costing approximately £16 million for potentially two to three additional forms of entry. This expansion would take place over several years as pupils move up through the year groups. Current plans suggest the extension will open in 2026, but due to delays with the Department for Education (DfE), this date may be pushed back.

Achieve and Learn Trust also supports Reddish Vale High School, which was placed in special measures in June 2024. The trust has implemented several changes to improve the overall quality of education and leadership, including changes in school leadership and substantial reforms to local governance. The DfE has issued the trust with a Termination Warning Notice (TWN) regarding Reddish Vale. This is a common step when an academy is judged ‘Inadequate’ by Ofsted, warning that the DfE may terminate the school’s funding agreement and rebroker it to another trust. The TWN was issued in September 2024, and trust leaders have met with the DfE to discuss the targeted support being provided. The trust remains committed to improving the school and strongly believes progress is being made. Ofsted inspectors are due to conduct a monitoring visit later this year.

The trust is keen to grow further but is unlikely to expand until Reddish Vale High School has demonstrated suitable improvement. There are other schools in the area that may consider joining Achieve and Learn in the future, though there are no immediate expansion plans. This represents an opportunity for new Trustees to contribute to strategic planning and decision-making. The trust has an annual income of approximately £14 million, and budgets are balanced, with suitable reserves in line with DfE recommendations. The trust has also received additional support for Reddish Vale’s improvement journey through collaboration with a strong trust brokered by the DfE. An independent, external review of governance has been commissioned via the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), with a report expected later in the spring.

The Trust’s requirements

Achieve and Learn Trust is looking to recruit at least two trustees and one member to join the trust. Trustee candidates will ideally have a background in business, governance, finance, or estates/engineering. Member candidates should have general business experience and may have previous director or non-executive director experience.

Trustees joining at this time are likely to be part of a small group joining the board simultaneously, expanding the skills and capacity of the current board. There is likely to be an opportunity for the right candidate to move into a leadership role, such as committee chair or vice chair, as part of the trust’s succession plans. The current chair is a retired headteacher from another school in the region and took on the role in summer 2024. The vice chair has served the trust for a considerable time, ensuring a mix of experience and healthy turnover.

All meetings are planned well in advance. Trust board meetings are held six times a year (once per half term) on Tuesdays from 6pm – 8pm, in person at Altrincham College. Finance, Risk, and Audit Committee meetings are held three times a year (once per term) on Tuesdays from 6pm – 8pm, also in person at the college. It is anticipated that Candidates with the relevant professional experience will be asked to join the Finance, Risk, and Audit Committee as well as the trust board. Candidates from other backgrounds are also welcome to express an interest in joining this committee.

The members meet for the AGM once a year but may also be convened for additional updates, up to three times annually, including the AGM.

All new Trustees and Members will receive an induction from the trust. This includes online training from the trust and external partners, assignment of a ‘buddy,’ and access to online forums such as National College and The Key. Additionally, all new trustees will receive access to Governors for Schools’ ‘The First 100 Days as a Trustee’ eLearning module, an immersive resource accredited by CPD.

Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) is seeking a dynamic and well-connected professional with experience in fundraising, marketing and relationship building to join its Board of Trustees.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a unique and growing organisation working at the nexus of human rights, rainforests and climate change, and to use your skills and passion to deliver impact for Indigenous Peoples and other local communities on the frontline of the fight against tropical deforestation.

The role of the Board is to provide strategic vision, direction and leadership, to support the financial and operational stability needed to advance RFUK’s mission, and to promote the organisation’s continued effectiveness.

We are looking for a Trustee with experience and skills in one or more of the following areas:

• Philanthropic giving
• Charitable foundation grants
• High net worth giving
• Corporate partnerships and CSR fundraising
• Individual giving and legacies
• Networking and profile raising
• Marketing, PR and communications

We are currently seeking a trustee to join the board of GREENHEART LEARNING PARTNERSHIP, a trust of 10 schools in the authority areas of Birmingham, Walsall and Staffordshire. The trust has an annual budget of £24m.

Greenheart Learning Partnership comprises 10 primary schools spread across three local authorities (Birmingham, Walsall, and Staffordshire). All but one school was judged as ‘Good’ at their last Ofsted inspections. The one exception was judged ‘Requires Improvement’ overall but was rated ‘Good’ in two areas. The trust has undergone some changes since its establishment in 2012 with the University of Wolverhampton as its sponsor. The Trust previously had a small number of secondary schools, but these moved to another trust two to three years ago, shifting the focus of the trust to primary education. There is no immediate plan for further growth, but this remains open for discussion.

The trust supports over 400 staff and serves around 3,150 children. One of the schools also has a special resource base, and two additional special units are being added to other schools. These units, each accommodating approximately 10 pupils with additional needs (specialising in autism), provide specialist support while enabling access to the mainstream curriculum. The trust also has robust financial procedures, healthy reserves, and a central strategic statement.

Greenheart Learning Partnership replaced its Local Governing Boards with Parent Forums in Summer 2024. This decision aimed to enhance community and stakeholder engagement at the local governance level. Two of the schools have Interim Advisory Boards (IABs) to provide additional challenge and support, and the reports/minutes from each Parent Forum (along with the IABs) are shared with Trustees at meetings. The trust has received positive feedback regarding the Parent Forums, with the Governance Lead noting that the more informal setting has reduced barriers and encouraged greater engagement. The Governance Lead joined the trust at the start of 2025 and is currently reviewing all aspects of governance to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.

An external governance review is planned for the next academic year, following the Governance Lead’s initial review and implementation of necessary changes.

The Trust’s requirements

The trust currently has seven Trustees and is recruiting to build capacity and ensure sustainability. The board possesses a range of skills but seeks to expand its expertise further. Ideal candidates may have backgrounds in business, finance, HR, or governance. The trust welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds but is particularly keen to encourage candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups.

Greenheart Learning Partnership seeks enthusiastic Trustees who are committed to strengthening governance and driving best practices. The Chair has been in post for nearly two years, and the Vice Chair previously chaired a local governing board that was deemed effective. As governance develops, there are likely to be opportunities for the right candidate to contribute to succession planning, potentially stepping into roles such as committee chair, vice chair, or even future chair of the board.

Trustees are currently expected to attend Trust Board meetings and two committees, though this is likely to reduce to one committee as the board’s capacity increases through this recruitment campaign. Trust Board and committee meetings are currently held remotely on Mondays from 1pm – 3pm, however this is currently under review and there may be some in-person meetings required.

All new Trustees will receive an induction programme led by the Governance Lead, as well as access to CST and GovernorHub Knowledge (formerly The Key). Additionally, all new Trustees will be provided with access to Governors for Schools’ ‘The First 100 Days as a Trustee’ eLearning module.

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen to become a Trustee at The Goldfinch Trust, a newly-forming Multi-Academy Trust in South London with a distinctive and vital mission: to deliver exceptional education for some of the country’s most vulnerable and medically complex children and young people.

Initially comprising two sites and formally launching in September 2025, new Trustees are sought to help ensure strong and robust governance structures, helping to shape future growth and planning. The Trust will have an annual budget of £3m, expected to rise with expansion of the organisation.

About The Goldfinch Trust

The Goldfinch Trust is a new Multi-Academy Trust with a distinctive and vital mission: to deliver exceptional education for some of the country’s most vulnerable and medically complex children and young people. The Trust will formally launch in September 2025, initially comprising two highly specialist settings: Maudsley & Bethlem Hospital School (MBHS) and St Peter’s Centre, with strong collaboration already in place with a third school, Kings College Hospital School (KCHS), which is expected to join formally in due course.

MBHS supports children aged 4–19, predominantly of secondary age, many of whom are hospital in-patients receiving treatment for severe psychiatric conditions. The school’s model is designed for short- to medium-term placements, with a key goal of reintegration into mainstream or alternative education once pupils are well enough to transition. The school currently supports up to 64 pupils, with a truly national intake reflecting the specialist nature of its provision.

St Peter’s Centre provides a more community-based education offer, supporting around 32 pupils with complex social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, including autism, anxiety, depression, and school-based trauma. The school supports KS1–4, although current placements are all in the secondary phase. A flexible, part-time attendance model allows the centre to double its reach and offer individualised support.

Kings College Hospital School (KCHS), working under a service-level agreement with MBHS, delivers bedside and on-site education for children with serious medical needs, including cancer and other life-limiting conditions. While not yet a formal Trust member, KCHS is fully aligned with the Trust’s mission and is expected to transfer formally following due diligence.

The Trust’s strategic direction is rooted in partnership with the NHS and regional local authorities, offering a model of educational support that could influence national best practice. The Trust will also relocate MBHS into a purpose-built setting at the hospital’s new development in 2026, offering state-of-the-art facilities designed in collaboration with school leaders. While future expansion is not mapped, the Trust has hosted visits from other hospital and special schools exploring academisation, and organic growth is a realistic possibility over the next few years. A formal growth strategy is yet to be defined, providing incoming Trustees with a unique opportunity to shape the Trust’s long-term development.

The new Board of Trustees will replace the current interim shadow board and will initially comprise seven non-executive directors, with scope to grow to 11 as needed. Local governance arrangements will remain in place at the school level, helping to ensure that Trustee responsibilities are strategically focused.

The Trust will open with an annual income of approximately £3 million, rising with expansion, and enters its incorporation phase with comfortable reserves and prudent financial oversight. The CEO-designate (currently Headteacher at MBHS) is a respected leader in the sector, advising the DfE on hospital school operations and funding, and will work closely with the new board to shape the Trust’s systems, culture, and impact.

The Trust’s Requirements

The Goldfinch Trust seeks dedicated and skilled Trustees to form its inaugural Board. This is a rare opportunity to help establish a new Trust from the ground up – setting its vision, guiding strategy, and developing systems to support the education of children and young people with serious medical and mental health conditions. While the Board will be supported by a team with expertise in finance, law, and HR, the Trust is particularly keen to hear from candidates with executive leadership experience in areas such as education, healthcare commissioning or procurement, charity governance, or growing organisations. Skills and backgrounds of interest include: strategic leadership in education, strategic growth, Healthcare commissioning or procurement, Safeguarding, SEND, Estates management/Health & Safety, Digital strategy Finance, and Audit.

Trustees will play a vital role in supporting and challenging the executive leadership team, ensuring high-quality provision and the effective use of public funds. A deep commitment to the Trust’s mission, supporting some of the country’s most vulnerable learners, is essential.

The full Trust Board will meet once per term (three times a year). In addition, Trustees will join one of two committees: Finance or Education Provision, which will also meet termly (three times a year).

There are plans for an annual strategy conference, likely to run over an extended half-day or full day. Meetings are expected to be scheduled in the early evening (5:pm–6.30pm starts) and last up to two hours. The precise meeting calendar is yet to be confirmed, but Trustees should expect a blend of face-to-face, online, and hybrid meetings. Some physical attendance will be required, so candidates should live within a reasonable commute of Beckenham (BR3 3BX) or Camberwell (SE5 8AB).

Trustees will be supported by a professional governance team, including external consultants currently advising on the Trust’s establishment. This is a unique opportunity to shape a new Trust that will provide life-changing support for young people with critical medical and psychiatric needs. By joining The Goldfinch Trust’s founding board, Trustees will not only help to define the strategic vision of the Trust, but also contribute to a pioneering model of integrated education and healthcare that could influence policy and practice across the country.

We are working with the Board of the 31-school River Learning Trust to recruit an individual possessing legal qualifications to bring insight and expertise into its strategic policy and governance framework. This role involves analysing audit outcomes, reviewing data, and contributing to the development and implementation of risk mitigation strategies. The Trust supports around 16,000 young people in the Oxfordshire and Swindon areas and has an annual budget of £100m.

River Learning Trust is a well-established Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) operating for over 12 years, currently comprising 30 schools – 20 primary and 10 secondary academies, primarily located in Oxfordshire and Swindon. The majority of these schools are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

In addition to mainstream provision, RLT operates a multi-site Alternative Provision unit, is a Department for Education (DfE) Teaching School Hub, and manages an Ofsted-approved SCITT (School Centred Initial Teacher Training) – Oxfordshire Teacher Training – training up to 150 teachers annually.

RLT is considered a ‘mixed MAT’, including both maintained and Church of England schools. A quarter of Trustees and Members are appointed by the Oxford Anglican Diocese. The Trust serves a broad demographic, spanning both urban and rural communities, and educates approximately 16,000 pupils, with around 3,000 staff.

Socioeconomic diversity is significant, with areas of high deprivation particularly in East Oxford and Swindon.
The Trust serves a diverse student population with 22.9% eligible for Free School Meals and 20.8% identified with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), reflecting a strong focus on inclusive and supportive education.

Students from minority ethnic backgrounds make up 60% of the cohort, contributing to a culturally rich learning environment. Additionally, 18.7% speak English as an Additional Language (EAL), highlighting the importance of language support across schools.

These demographics shape the Trust’s commitment to equity, tailored support, and high expectations for all learners.

The Trust Board consists of 10 Trustees and five members – the latter akin to the shareholder role – with an ongoing process to strengthen Board expertise. RLT is currently seeking a new Trustee with legal expertise to enhance governance, policy scrutiny, and risk management.

The Trust maintains several Schemes of Delegation to govern its operations effectively, including tailored schemes for Church schools and its teaching/training arms. Governance is supported by a Lead Governance Professional, a Director of Finance, and a team of Directors of School Improvement. Safeguarding is a key priority, with regular audits and a dedicated Trustee lead.

RLT manages an annual income of approximately £100 million. The 2023/24 financial outturn was in line with expectations. Schools remained within their budgets, and the external audit confirmed sound financial management and compliance. Reserves meet DfE guidelines. Like many Trusts, RLT faces ongoing challenges, particularly regarding SEND funding and staff recruitment and retention.

The Trust’s Requirements

The Trust is seeking a legally trained individual to bring legal insight and expertise into its strategic policy and governance framework. This role involves analysing audit outcomes, reviewing data, and contributing to the development and implementation of risk mitigation strategies. The goal is to enhance the Trust’s decision-making processes and ensure that legal considerations are embedded at all levels of governance.

While the geographic location of the candidate is flexible, a connection to the Swindon area would be particularly welcomed. The appointment will play a critical role in supporting the Trust’s ongoing governance review and will contribute to strengthening Board capacity as the organisation maintains its current size and strategic direction.

Trustees are expected to commit to five Board meetings per year, along with termly sub-committee meetings. These meetings are held in the evenings and are a mix of in-person and remote formats. In addition, each Trustee is linked to two or three academies within the Trust, fostering meaningful relationships with school leadership teams. A structured induction programme is in place for new Trustees, which includes formal training, school visits, and engagement with senior Trust leaders.

The work of the Board is supported by several key committees, including:

• Impact Committee
• Resources Committee (covering Finance and Audit)
• Safeguarding Committee

Additionally, there is an Annual Trustee Strategy Day focusing on long-term planning and reflection.

River Learning Trust operates according to core principles that shape its strategy and culture: a commitment to Excellence, a belief in Everyone Learning, and a foundation of Respectful Relationships. These values guide the Trust’s ambition to deliver academic success and personal development for every pupil, ensure no school stands still in its improvement journey, foster high-quality collaboration that raises standards and reduces workload, and build a culture of joint accountability across all its schools.