Governance management volunteer roles

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Birmingham and the surrounding area are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up

We are seeking a chair in waiting to join our board. If you have management or professional experience in the third, public or private sector, want to make a difference to people at risk of hunger or destitution, and share our values, we might have a role for you. 

What will you be doing?

We are seeking someone with experience working at a senior level within the voluntary, public or private sectors and experience of being on a board of trustees i to succeed the current chair who is retiring from the role in 2026. 

Our intention is that the person recruited spends some time shadowing the work of the chair and familiarising themselves with every aspect of the organisation before taking over the reins before the end of the calendar year. 

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidate would demonstrate: 

• An understanding of, and commitment to, the work of foodbanks and tackling poverty.
• Senior management experience in the voluntary, public or private sectors, including the development, implementation and review of strategies/business plans.

• Experience of being a trustee within a voluntary or community organisation.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team that provides a vital service in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience for people in financial crisis and facing hunger.

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.

A little over three years ago we successfully opened our brand new venue in Elephant & Castle, making us a two building, three venue, London fringe powerhouse. We present and host over 40 main house theatre productions per year alongside a busy community participation programme.

We are looking for up to 3 people to join our board of trustees and be part of our ongoing development and evolution. Ensuring that we remain ambitious but also resilient going forwards.

Plans include: building and developing the staff team; introducing a fundraising and development strategy; enhancing our profile and marketing offer; and developing our own in-house programme of work.

We are also looking to the longer-term and the potential development of a new theatre in London Bridge.

Becoming a trustee of Southwark Playhouse will introduce you to a range of people and activities not found elsewhere. You will take up a position within an organisation that has broad impact and delivers engaging, joyful and thought-provoking experiences. You will witness first hand the life changing impact that engagement with arts and culture can have on individuals and communities and we hope that you will be proud to govern an organisation that has such a positive and powerful legacy.

Trustees are the guardians of our purpose - as a trustee you will have oversight of the strategic direction of Southwark Playhouse and contribute to creative discussions about our aims and mission, ensuring that we remain a vital and relevant cultural asset for Southwark, the Capital and beyond.

As a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, you will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with our governing documents, charity law and other laws that apply to our organisation.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We’re looking to recruit up to 3 new Trustees to the Board.

We’re looking for passionate and committed individuals who love theatre and the arts, believe in the work that we do, and who want to play a part in our next chapter of growth and development. You do not need to have been a Trustee before or have previous Board experience.

Whilst we’d like to hear from applicants from a range of backgrounds and experiences, we are particularly keen to hear from those with skills in any of the following areas:

• Marketing / Communications
• Legal: Employment Law / Contract Law
• Fundraising / Development
• Finance / Accountancy
• Creative strategy / Production

The general attributes we’re looking for in potential Trustees include:

• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively and strategically.
• An ability to collaborate and work as part of a team.
• Effective interpersonal skills, and a willingness to act as an ambassador for Southwark Playhouse.
• An active commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• An ability to command trust and respect.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of being a Trustee.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort required.

EXPECTATIONS

What we ask of you:

• To serve an initial term of 3 years.
• To attend 4 x 2-hour Board Meetings a year.
• To attend 1 x 1-hour AGM per year (often appended to a board meeting as above)
• Attend an annual Away Day.
• To attend and at times host Southwark Playhouse receptions, events, opening nights and other engagements.
• To sit on a Board Sub Committee as required and appropriate.
• To provide specialist advice and expertise as required and appropriate.
• To advocate and champion Southwark Playhouse’s work, values, ambition and strategic direction.

In total, Trustees usually commit the equivalent of 6-7 days per annum to their role.

What you can expect from us:

• The opportunity to help shape the future direction of London’s leading fringe theatre, and be part of an active, loyal and engaged group of Trustees.
• 2 complimentary tickets for every production presented at Southwark Playhouse (subject to availability).
• Flexibility when it comes to attending meetings either in person or remotely via video call.
• A full Trustee induction with current Trustees and permanent staff.

Please note that Trustee roles are voluntary and therefore unpaid, however reasonable out-ofpocket expenses can be covered.

​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.

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.

Are you looking for a skilled volunteering opportunity to support your career progression? Do you have a passion for improving outcomes for all children? Could you use your professional skills to help shape the future of education?

As a school governor, you’ll operate at board-level and develop strategic leadership skills and assist in making decisions on a wide range of topics; all while collaboratively improving education within your local community.
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for schools in Eastbourne to strengthen their governing boards and enhance outcomes of pupils within your communities. If you feel, you want to make a difference within your community, read on for more details about the role of a governor and how to apply.

Governors make decisions that affect schools and their pupils for years to come; our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. Becoming a governor gives you ample opportunity for personal and professional development, including exposure to finance and budgeting, safeguarding, HR, strategic planning, and more.
As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role as well as have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. Governors act as a ‘critical friend’ to their head teacher ensuring accountability and helping to monitor and evaluate the schools progress, budget and staffing. You’ll also help to shape and implement future plans and guide the schools aims, ethos and values.

You don’t need to be a parent or have any specific skills to become a governor as long as you’re over 18 and happy to have a DBS check, you can apply! Professional skills such as HR, finance, law or project management are useful but governing boards are often needing softer skills such as leadership, communication and problem solving alongside a fresh perspective and lived experience within their communities. As a governor, you’ll be supported by the Chair, head teacher and the rest of the governing team.

This vacancy is for an alternative provision looking to find a governor to sit on their board who is passionate about making a difference. The school is passionate about offering young people the chance to realise their unique talents and potential. 

If you’re interested in becoming a school governor, fill out the short application form on our website.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Derby and the surrounding area are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up

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.

MenWalkTalk has been developing at a pace and is now looking for new Trustees to help strengthen the Board to continue the growth.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that MenWalkTalk achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity ensuring that MenWalkTalk has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable MenWalkTalk to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that Trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

• Support and provide advice on MenWalkTalk’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee MenWalkTalk’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve MenWalkTalk’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to MenWalkTalk’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Contribute to regular reviews of MenWalkTalk’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect MenWalkTalk’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of MenWalkTalk’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the Trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. The ideal candidates will have 3 or more years previous governance experience in the UK charity sector.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 6-9 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held remotely each month.
• Attending 2 annual strategy / training days

Committee membership

Membership of at least one of the Trustee committees attending relevant meetings and reporting back to the Board.

Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support provides a walk-in centre in Plymouth offering needs-led, practical assistance to asylum seekers.

Our vision is to have a fair, humane and safe asylum experience for all. We are seeking a dynamic and committed Chair to lead our Board of Trustees and work in partnership with our Chief Executive to guide Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support through its next phase of development.

What will you be doing?

The Chair will provide inclusive leadership, ensure robust governance, and act as a passionate ambassador for our cause. You will be instrumental in shaping our strategy to meet the growing needs of asylum seekers in a challenging political landscape.

Location: Board meetings are held 8 times per year in Plymouth, with options for remote attendance. Some additional events and meetings may require travel.

Time Commitment: Approximately 3-4 days per month, including board meetings, preparation, and external representation. This is a voluntary, unremunerated role.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate who can demonstrate the following: 

• A commitment to the rights, dignity, and welfare of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants in need.
• Significant experience within the charity sector, ideally in both operations and governance.
• An understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a trustee and Chair under UK charity law.
• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to chair meetings effectively and foster a collaborative board culture.
• Proven ability to think strategically and contribute to organisational development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to act as an ambassador for the organisation.
• A commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). 

DCRS is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Please request a copy of the candidate pack for further information.

What difference will you make?

As Chair you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of asylum seekers and refugees. 

You'll have the chance to develop and utilize your skills in a meaningful context, work with a dedicated team and access networking opportunities within the charity sector. 

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support with their Trustee recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.

If you want to have an informal conversation with DCRS directly to understand the organisation better we are happy to help arrange this for you.

If you wish to apply please provide an updated CV and request a copy of the application form.

About Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre 

Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre is a community organisation and registered charity that exists to champion LGBTQ+ lives. We provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our work spans direct support, connection, advocacy and celebration. 

What we do 

• Counselling: We offer professional counselling, including a specialised domestic abuse service, to help people navigate challenges and build resilience. 

• Social and support groups: We run groups for young people, adults, trans and non-binary people, and for family members and allies. These groups create stable communities, reduce isolation and offer peer support. 

• Creative and social activities: Our community choir and other creative activities provide space for expression, confidence and belonging. 

• Training and advocacy: We work with schools, health providers, councils, businesses and community organisations to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion and awareness. 

Our vision and direction 

We envision a region where LGBTQ+ people are visible, safe and thriving. Over the next five years we will deepen our presence across Leicestershire and Rutland, improve access in areas with fewer services, and secure a permanent venue that reflects our ambitions. We will continue to co-create our offer with communities, keep services accessible, and champion equity and inclusion in everything we do. 

Governance and the role of the Board 

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the charity’s strategy, governance and financial health. Trustees safeguard the charity’s assets, ensure compliance with law and regulation, and work with the Chief Executive to ensure the charity is running effectively. Trustees support, challenge and advise the Senior Leadership Team in a spirit of partnership. The Chair leads the Board and ensures it functions well. 

Trustees are also directors of the charitable company. We provide trustee indemnity insurance. 

The role of Chair 

Purpose 

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees to ensure effective governance, a positive culture and a shared focus on impact. The Chair works closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the organisation delivers its strategy and remains well run. 

Strategic focus for the next 12 to 24 months 

• Oversight of our three-year National Lottery funding programme, including delivery assurance and risk management. 

• Support for regional expansion so that services reach communities across Leicestershire and Rutland in a measured and sustainable way. 

• Governance oversight of venue acquisition and the preparatory work that will enable a successful opening and long-term viability. 

Core responsibilities 

• Provide leadership to the Board and ensure trustees discharge their duties effectively and in line with the Charity Governance Code. 

• Set Board agendas with the Chief Executive, plan and chair effective meetings, and ensure clear decisions, minutes and action tracking. 

• Maintain a strong, constructive relationship with the Chief Executive, including monthly one-to-ones and an annual appraisal led by the Chair with Board input. 

• Ensure the Board receives timely, relevant information and is able to scrutinise performance, finance, risk and impact. 

• Oversee Board composition, skills and performance, including recruitment, induction, training and periodic reviews. 

• Champion an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and respected. 

• Model the Centre’s values in every setting. 

• Represent the Centre as an ambassador with key partners and stakeholders when appropriate. 

• Approve or co-approve extraordinary funding decisions with the Treasurer where required by policy and delegations. 

• Ensure statutory accounts are signed and submitted and that key reports to funders and regulators are timely and accurate. 

• Manage conflicts of interest and uphold high standards of conduct. 

• Hold the casting vote if a Board decision is tied. 

Relationship with the Chief Executive 

The Chief Executive is accountable to the Board. The Chair undertakes regular supportive one-to-ones with the Chief Executive and leads their annual appraisal. The Chair works with the Chief Executive to set clear priorities, manage risk and unlock barriers to delivery. 

Time commitment and meeting pattern 

• Estimated at a maximum of two to three days per month. This includes preparation, meetings and ambassadorial duties. 

• Maximum of six Board meetings per year. Meetings are held in person at The Centre. 

• Monthly Chair and Chief Executive one-to-one meetings. 

• Quarterly committee and working sessions may be convened as needed for finance, risk, governance or venue planning. The Chair provides oversight across these areas. 

• An annual strategy and reflection session with trustees and senior staff. 

• Attendance at key public events, including Pride and major Centre occasions. 

Person specification 

Essential 

• Commitment to the mission, values and future direction of Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre. 

• Inclusive leadership with the ability to chair purposeful meetings and to build consensus. 

• Experience as a vice-chair, committee chair or equivalent governance role. 

• Good understanding of charity governance, finance and risk. 

• Sound judgement, integrity and the confidence to hold senior leaders to account while providing support. 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to represent the Centre externally. 

• Lived experience of LGBTQ+ issues or strong allyship and understanding of the challenges our communities face. 

• Knowledge of equity, inclusion and social justice and how these principles are applied in governance and organisational development. 

• Direct knowledge of or links to Leicester and Leicestershire. 

• Availability for the stated time commitment and for key Centre events. 

Desirable 

• Prior experience as a charity chair. 

• Understanding of venue development or capital projects. 

• Local residency or the ability to attend meetings in person. Non-local candidates will be considered if they can meet in-person requirements and demonstrate strong regional commitment. 

Eligibility, safeguarding and conduct 

Trustees must be at least 16 and not disqualified under charity law. The role is subject to two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check. A short code of conduct applies to all trustees. Conflicts of interest must be declared at appointment and kept up to date. A whistleblowing route is in place. 

What we offer 

• A purposeful leadership role with visible impact for LGBTQ+ people across the region. 

• A collaborative Board and staff team with a positive culture. 

• A tailored induction. Briefings will be arranged with the Chief Executive, Centre Manager and staff leads. A handover meeting with the outgoing Chair will be provided. 

• Access to training and development relevant to the role. 

• Opportunities to represent the Centre at events, build networks and celebrate our community, including Pride. 

• Out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed in line with policy. 

• Membership of the Association of Chairs 

Equality, diversity and inclusion 

We warmly encourage applications from trans and non-binary people, people of colour, disabled people and those from other underrepresented groups. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and to removing barriers. Interviews can be adapted to meet access needs. Meeting venues are step-free. Papers can be provided in accessible formats on request. Please tell us what you need and we will do our best to provide it. 

Privacy notice 

Your application will be used for recruitment purposes only and handled in line with our data protection policy. We will retain applicant data for a limited period and then delete it securely. If you would like your data deleted sooner, please let us know.