Youth children volunteer volunteer roles

Are you passionate about tackling clothing poverty and keeping good clothing in use? Do you want to use your voice, experience, or platform to help others? Join Sharewear Clothing Scheme as a Volunteer Ambassador and help us to reach people we could never reach alone.

We’re looking for people who care deeply about social justice, community, and clothing circularity. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of clothing poverty or hardship, whose insight helps us shape how we engage with and support others with dignity.

Whether you’re confident in community spaces, connected in corporate settings, or active online, we have three flexible Ambassador roles:

Community Ambassador

Help raise awareness locally, represent Sharewear at events, and inspire people to get involved.

Corporate Ambassador

Use your professional networks to open doors to partnerships, sponsorship, and clothing circularity opportunities.

Digital Ambassador

Use your online presence to amplify our message and help more people understand clothing poverty and its impact. 

Young Lives Foundation are recruiting volunteer wellbeing mentors (living in Kent) to support young people through one-to-one mentoring. 
 
Their mentors provide consistent, positive support to a young person, helping them build confidence, resilience, and life skills. No formal qualifications are required, and full training, safeguarding checks, and ongoing support are provided.
 
They’re looking for people who are:

• Reliable and committed
• Good listeners with empathy and patience
• Interested in making a meaningful difference to a young person’s life

The commitment is typically around 1–2 hours per week, for a minimum of 6 months.

For more information and to apply click here

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Socially Connected Ambassador (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Purpose: To leverage personal and professional networks to expand GLF’s reach and influence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent GLF at social, political, and business networking events.

• Connect GLF with potential partners, donors, and sponsors.

• Support awareness campaigns through social media and public engagement.

• Advocate for youth and family issues in community forums.

Requirements/Skills:

• Strong public presence or social influence.

• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills.

• Passionate advocate for vulnerable children and families.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to be the public face of a growing national movement.

• Exclusive access to elite events, media appearances, and social recognition.

• Personal fulfillment from using influence to create tangible change.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Flexible, ad hoc volunteering. Volunteers will be contacted when support is needed for upcoming events and can simply let us know whether they are available!

***There is no expectation to attend every event, and volunteers are free to accept or decline opportunities based on their own availability. Shifts may include weekdays, evenings or weekends depending on the event***

As a Bank Volunteer Event Assistant, you will support One YMCA at a variety of fundraising, community and engagement events throughout the year. This flexible role is ideal for someone who enjoys meeting people, working as part of a team and helping to create welcoming, well-organised events that promote One YMCA's mission. No two events are the same, and your tasks will vary depending on the nature of the event.

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

• Assist with event setup and pack-down, including arranging tables, signage, and equipment.
• Welcome and register attendees, providing information and directions as needed.
• Support fundraising activities such as raffles, collections, and merchandise sales.
• Help manage event activities and ensure attendees have a positive experience.
• Distribute promotional materials and raise awareness of YMCA services and initiatives.
• Provide general assistance to event organisers and other volunteers.
• Follow health and safety procedures and report any concerns to event staff.
• Represent One YMCA in a professional, friendly, and positive manner.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Friendly, approachable, and reliable.
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Organised and willing to take initiative.
• Flexible and able to assist with a range of event tasks.
• Passionate about supporting local communities.

Training / Support

• A full induction the site and service will be provided 
• Requirement to complete online e-learning including Safeguarding and Health & Safety 
• A menu of optional training will be provided 
• Ongoing support and regular 1 to 1s
• Opportunities to attend volunteer meetings, conferences and events across the organisation

Additional Information 

• You will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check
• Two references will be required

We are looking for enthusiastic Badminton Session Volunteers to help lead and support our weekly badminton sessions!

We are looking for enthusiastic Badminton Session Volunteers to help lead and support our weekly badminton sessions, encouraging residents to improve their physical and mental wellbeing through sport.

Location:

Wycombe Badminton Centre

Crest Road

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

Session Times:

• Monday: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
• Wednesday: 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Project Resilience provides easily accessible opportunities for our hostel residents to take part in a variety of social and sporting activities, helping to improve their overall health, wellbeing and confidence.

We are looking for volunteers who are passionate about badminton and enjoy encouraging others to participate in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Planning, preparing and delivering engaging weekly badminton sessions.
• Helping with the set-up and tidying away of equipment.
• Encouraging residents to participate and supporting them to develop their confidence, fitness and badminton skills.
• Working closely with the Project Resilience Coordinator, maintaining open communication and providing feedback.
• Assisting with any related events or friendly tournaments where appropriate.

This role offers a rewarding opportunity to motivate and support vulnerable residents while helping them improve their physical health, mental wellbeing and social connections. You'll gain valuable coaching and leadership experience while making a positive impact within the community.

You will need:

• Previous experience of playing, coaching or leading badminton sessions.
• The ability to work as part of a team as well as on your own initiative.
• An empathetic and understanding approach to working with vulnerable residents who may have varying levels of fitness and sporting ability.
• A recognised sports coaching or fitness qualification is desirable (this does not need to be badminton-specific), or relevant experience leading sports sessions.

What we will provide:

• A full induction to the role and site.
• Mandatory e-learning and access to a range of optional training opportunities.
• Ongoing supervision and support from your line manager.
• Access to organisational events and celebrations throughout the year.

Please note: You will be required to undergo a DBS check, and we will require two references before you begin volunteering.

About the Commonwealth Education Trust

According to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics, in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, only 62% of primary school teachers have the minimum teaching qualifications.

In 2023, only 9% of young people in lower secondary education in Zambia reached the minimum level of proficiency in reading. Lifelong learning opportunities and economic growth are being stunted.

All children deserve a quality education from a transformative and supportive teacher. The Commonwealth Education Trust (CET) invests in teachers in low- and middle-income settings by providing accessible teacher professional development, including via its flagship programme, Teach2030. There are 9 online courses that improve foundational teaching skills in the classroom.

Job description

We are looking for a volunteer who can create videos for our courses that can be uploaded to our WordPress site.

This role offers the flexibility of:

- Design. This includes video style and choice, along with the programme used. Animations look great in our courses.

- Placement. Courses are all online. You can choose where the video will go, transforming text already there into a video.

- Hours. Work at your own pace and whatever hours suit you.

What are we looking for?

- Creativity and flair

- Self-motivated and self-starter

- Ability to create videos

- A teaching background is not required, as all script is provided for you.

A growing women’s empowerment social enterprise in Uganda is seeking a volunteer accountant to strengthen budgeting, cashflow forecasting and financial systems.

The organisation supports over 300 women artisans, including single mothers, widows and teenage mothers, through vocational training and income generating opportunities linked to handmade crafts.

As international sales opportunities grow, the organisation wants to ensure its finance processes remain practical, sustainable and fit for purpose.

The volunteer will work with the Founder and Managing Director to review internal processes and controls, support effective use of Zoho Books, review the chart of accounts, improve budgeting and cashflow forecasting, develop simple management reporting tools and support audit preparation.

This would suit a hands on volunteer comfortable working closely with a small local team.

__________________________________

Accounting for International Development, AfID, matches experienced accountants with charities, NGOs and social enterprises around the world. Our volunteers provide practical finance support, helping partners strengthen systems, reporting, controls and confidence.

We're excited to be recruiting a brand new Social Media & Digital Marketing Volunteer to play a vital role in amplifying the mission and activities of The Great Friendship Project.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, gain hands-on experience in marketing and social media management for a non-profit, and make a positive impact on the lives of young people struggling with loneliness.

Key Responsibilities

- Content Creation: Develop original, captivating, and platform-relevant content for social media that embodies the organisation's mission and resonates with the target demographic.]

- Photography and Filming: Capture high-quality photos and videos at events, for campaigns, and for daily content needs, ensuring visuals align with the brand's voice and messaging.

- Social Media Strategy: Keep up-to-date with social media trends, create content plans, and ensure consistent posting to maintain and grow the platform's following.

- Cross-Promotion: Collaborate with partners and agencies to promote our content across other channels and vice versa.

- Social Media Management: Support with the growth of other organisation's social media platforms

- Create engaging content, schedule posts, and interact with the online community to promote events, initiatives, and success stories.

Qualities/Attributes

- Driven by the project's vision and dedicated to addressing loneliness among young adults.

- Outstanding ability to conceptualise and execute trending content.

- Basic video editing skills and familiarity with mobile content tools.

- Independent, organised, and self-directed.

- Welcoming of constructive critique and eager to evolve and collaborate within a team setting.

Your Role

As a Social Media & Digital Marketing Volunteer, your help will not only contribute to immediate outcomes such as increased event attendance and community engagement but also play a pivotal part in the organisation's larger mission of reducing loneliness among young adults and creating a lasting positive impact on their lives.

This is an unpaid role suitable for individuals seeking valuable experience in the non-profit sector, and looking for opportunities for skill development, networking, and making a meaningful contribution to the community. 

When you've submitted your application, you will be contacted and asked to complete a series of questions, so that we can consider you for this role.

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.

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.