Volunteer roles for the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra welcomes applications from any skilled professional with expert knowledge in their field and who has a passion for the role a major arts charity can play across a socially and geographically diverse region.

‘The cultural heartbeat of the South West.’

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England

One of the UK’s best-loved orchestras, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra is a professional ensemble known for championing the role of culture in people’s lives. Based at Lighthouse, Poole, it has residencies in Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Portsmouth, Southampton and Yeovil — and is the largest cultural provider in the South West, serving one of the biggest and most diverse regions in the UK.

Whilst the BSO already benefits from a wide range of skills on the Board of Trustees, we are looking to strengthen the team further and provide long-term succession planning in its governance.

Given BSO’s unique remit covering 10,000 square miles of the South and South West of England, the Board is seeking to appoint two Trustees to help build BSO’s presence and connections regionally and nationally. We hope that our new Trustees will help develop the Company’s links across Corporate, Civic and Community life.

Through this recruitment, BSO are looking for two individuals. The BSO is seeking a trustee with Director of Finance experience who can lead on financial matters on behalf of the Board. Experience as a chief finance officer in the business, charity or education sectors would be preferable.They are also seeking someone who can help the company build resilience for the business in Bristol and across the South West, developing new supportive relationships centered around the fact we are currently Bristol Beacon’s Orchestra in Residence. It is hoped that at least one of the two new Trustees appointed will be Bristol based.

If you would like an informal conversation about the Board or Charity with either Andrew Flockhart or Dougie Scarfe, please contact Nicola Fulker to make arrangements.

Closing date: 27 June 2025

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra welcomes applications from any skilled professional with expert knowledge in their field and who has a passion for the role a major arts charity can play across a socially and geographically diverse region.

‘The cultural heartbeat of the South West.’

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England

One of the UK’s best-loved orchestras, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra is a professional ensemble known for championing the role of culture in people’s lives. Based at Lighthouse, Poole, it has residencies in Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Portsmouth, Southampton and Yeovil — and is the largest cultural provider in the South West, serving one of the biggest and most diverse regions in the UK.

Whilst the BSO already benefits from a wide range of skills on the Board of Trustees, we are looking to strengthen the team further and provide long-term succession planning in its governance.

Given BSO’s unique remit covering 10,000 square miles of the South and South West of England, the Board is seeking to appoint two Trustees to help build BSO’s presence and connections regionally and nationally. We hope that our new Trustees will help develop the Company’s links across Corporate, Civic and Community life.

Through this recruitment, BSO are looking for two individuals. The BSO is seeking a trustee with Director of Finance experience who can lead on financial matters on behalf of the Board. Experience as a chief finance officer in the business, charity or education sectors would be preferable.  They are also seeking someone who can help the company build resilience for the business in Bristol and across the South West, developing new supportive relationships centered around the fact we are currently Bristol Beacon’s Orchestra in Residence. It is hoped that at least one of the two new Trustees appointed will be Bristol based.

For further details, please download our briefing pack from our website.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons.

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace.

The Personal Assistant role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to:

• Gain experience in the Third Sector.
• Develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'.

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Managing databases
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills.
• Well-organised, proactive, and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Good time management
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
• Able to participate at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Excel.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours of commitment per week across Monday and Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits: Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Remote

Wessex Museums Trust is seeking a new independent Trustee to join the Board. This is an opportunity to contribute to the leadership and future direction of the charity.

As a Trustee, you will play a key role in shaping the future of Wessex Museums Trust. The Board of Trustees holds strategic responsibility for governance, ensuring financial stability, and compliance with regulations. Main duties include:

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its objectives.

• Contributing actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation.

• Protecting and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds. 

We are also looking for someone who could potentially fulfil the role of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Lead on our Board. The role involves centering EDI in the work of the WMT Board to support us to fulfil the commitments in our EDI framework and action plan.

We are seeking enthusiastic and committed volunteers to support our programmes in a variety of roles, including Subject Ambassadors, Front of House/Chaperones, and Stage/Production Crew.  These roles provide a fantastic opportunity to engage with students, parents, and MTA staff while contributing to a vibrant and inclusive learning and performance environment. 

Roles & Responsibilities: 

1. Subject Ambassador: 

· Actively participate in sessions to encourage student engagement 

· Champion an inclusive and fun learning experience for all

· Act as a classroom assistant to support our facilitators

· Provide pastoral care and learning support

· Lead by example with a positive and enthusiastic approach

· Depending on individual goals, work with MTA staff to develop a personal progression plan to gain relevant experience in key areas including (but not limited to): working with children, leadership, assistant directing, musical direction and more

· Actively represent and promote MTA at volunteer events and networking opportunities, engaging with attendees to share our mission and initiatives

2. Front of House / Chaperone 

· Help assist with events management in many areas which can align to your personal goals

· Potentially take on specific event tasks (i.e. events logistics including set up/pack down, running a stall at fundraising events etc.)

· Serve as a point of contact for students and parents ensuring a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.  

· Provide backstage support and supervision to children and young people – ensuring the children have a great experience

· Provide entertainment for groups (i.e. playing games, encouraging arts & crafts etc.)

· Help assist with moving children and young people to and from the stage and/or performance location

3. Stage / Production Crew 

· In line with your personal experience and/or personal development goals, help assist with the technical and/or logistical needs of performances  

· Support performance’s technical aspects; including set-up of equipment (lighting and/or sound), operation and pack down/get out

· Support performances with set design, build and/or production crew roles (stage management and stagehands)

Join Upswing as their next Treasurer, supporting this award-winning contemporary circus company as they continue to tell new stories in extraordinary ways.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 23rd June 2025

Location: Stoke-on-Trent

About Upswing

Founded in 2006, Upswing is an award-winning contemporary circus company founded by Vicki Amedume. Since then, the company has created world-class performance and participatory experiences.

Upswing uses circus to tell new stories in extraordinary ways, amplifying and celebrating the skills, creative talents and stories of diverse artists and communities.

From large-scale spectacles on the side of buildings to intimate shows for young people and their families in libraries, from performances taking place in the public realm to full-length theatrical shows presented in traditional theatre settings, Upswing’s productions, collaborations, and creative engagement programmes span multiple scales, reaching a range of audiences and participants across the UK and overseas.

Upswing is proud to be an Arts Council England National Portfolio organisation, with plans to build a more diverse sector and deepen relationships in North Staffordshire embedding Circus as a strong cultural offer in the region.

Upswing has a powerful track record in supporting artists and practitioners in performance development, finding new creative approaches and pushing the art form’s boundaries.

About the role

Upswing is looking for a passionate individual with energy and commitment to join their Board as Treasurer. You will share a passion for their work, be excited by their ambition and be deeply committed to Upswing being a diverse organisation that utilises its position at the forefront of the UK’s circus sector to develop the art form and its people — whilst connecting with varied audiences in a range of performance, participatory and education settings.

This role presents the opportunity to combine knowledge and understanding of the sector challenges with empathy and interest in the unique programming Upswing delivers.

This is an exciting time for the organisation as they embed themselves in their new local community of Stoke-on-Trent, the birthplace of modern circus.

Who we are looking for

Upswing is looking for someone who can build on the work of their outgoing Treasurer. As a qualified accountant with experience in a senior role with supervisory responsibility for a finance function, you will combine strategic vision and creative thinking with sound independent judgement. You will be a great team player and an enthusiastic ambassador for Upswing and our work.

Good financial monitoring and analytic skills and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to all levels of understanding will be key, along with a commitment to Upswing’s overall objectives.

With knowledge of financial management, including book-keeping, financial processes and procedures, you will either already have or be willing to acquire knowledge of the charity SORP.

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

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 23rd June 2025.

Kingsbridge, Devon – Harbour House, a vibrant hub for creativity, wellbeing, and community in the heart of Kingsbridge, is seeking two new members to join its Board of Trustees. These voluntary roles—General Board Member and Treasurer—offer a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of a much-loved local organisation.

Harbour House’s dynamic board brings together individuals with a wide range of backgrounds, skills, and experiences. The organisation is now looking to further diversify and strengthen its leadership as it works towards an ambitious and community-focused future.

Ideal candidates will have an interest in creativity, arts, or wellbeing, but more importantly, a commitment to collaboration—both with fellow trustees, the Harbour House team and with the local community. Harbour House particularly welcomes applications from individuals living in Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas.

Trustee Roles Available

Treasurer
We are looking for a financially experienced trustee to take on this key role. Applicants should ideally:

• Have a strong background in finance, particularly within the charity sector
   

• Have experience serving as a treasurer or in a similar financial governance role
   

General Trustee
This role is open to individuals with experience operating at board level, particularly those with expertise in:

• Fundraising
   

• Marketing and communications
   

• Community engagement Previous trustee experience is welcomed but not essential.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to send:

• A CV, including contact details for two referees
   

• A covering letter or a short video message explaining:
   

  • Why they want to join the Trust
     

  • What they hope to contribute

Deadline for applications: Monday 2nd June 2025

Make a Difference

Are you committed to Devon and Somerset’s wonderful heritage? The South West Heritage Trust is looking for up to four people to join its Board of Trustees and to bring their knowledge, skills and enthusiasm to the Trust’s governance during a time of opportunity and change. Being a trustee is a way of helping make a real difference.

About Us

The Trust is a charity and limited company which delivers heritage services in Devon and Somerset relating to archives, museums and the historic environment. There are six main sites as well as over 400 acres of landscape heritage. We have more than 100,000 visitors a year, including 10,000 young people who participate in our learning programmes.

Representing our Communities

We recognise that diversity in all its forms can make the Trust a better and stronger organisation. We welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds. We especially encourage applications from minority ethnic people, people with disabilities, younger people and LGBTQ+ people. We’re also seeking to ensure that the board has an appropriate gender balance. We want to strengthen the Board’s effectiveness in relation to marketing, business and cultural engagement.

The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is one of London’s leading producing houses. We produce world class theatre from the heart of Hammersmith. The Lyric is committed to being part of the community, and we believe passionately in excellence and integrity in everything we do.

The Lyric’s Nomination Committee is seeking a new Chair for Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises Ltd, who will also serve as a Trustee of Lyric. The subsidiary is governed by a non-executive Board of Directors, chaired by this role.  Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises is responsible the Lyric’s non-charitable trading operations including catering, hires and events. Our commercial income is critical to helping the Lyric achieve its artistic and charitable objectives.

We are looking for a Chair with influence and authority, strategic thinking and sound judgement with particular expertise in commercial operations and income generation. You will need to share a passion for our artistic work and our commitment to being an equal, diverse, inclusive and environmentally sustainable organisation.

This role will serve as a Trustee to the charity, joining the existing Board for an initial three-year term. Trustees support the Chair, Lorraine Heggessey, and offer their expertise and guidance to the Executive Team.

We are particularly interested in those who have a strong connection with West London.

FoBV is seeking four new Trustees to serve on the Board of Trustees of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) at a very exciting time in the life of this organisation.

About us:

Bennerley Viaduct, known locally as the ‘Iron Giant’, is one of only two wrought iron railway viaducts remaining in the UK. It was built in 1877 by the Great Northern Railway Company but was closed to rail traffic in 1968. It is now a Grade II* monument, beloved in the area.

Saved from demolition following a public enquiry in 1980 the Bennerley Viaduct stood dormant for 40 years until 2020. In 2020 FoBV was formed as a CIO to bring together the community that was interested in this structure and its surrounding environment. FoBV have since worked in partnership with the owners of the viaduct, Railway Paths Limited (RPL), and funders to restore the viaduct for public access and bring it to life with a programme of activities.

FoBV now lease the viaduct from RPL and has successfully attracted funding for the restoration of the viaduct and activity programmes from NHLF, Severn Trent Community Fund, World Monuments Fund amongst many others. FoBV has also worked in partnership with Broxtowe Borough Council to secure funding to deliver a new visitor centre, café and accessible ramp for the viaduct as part of the Kimberley Town Bid.

We now need to strengthen the existing Board of Trustees to oversee this next stage of the life of the ‘Iron Giant’ as we complete the new visitor centre and its fully accessible eastern ramp. We are looking for Trustees specifically with skills in Marketing & social media, Fundraising & Grants, Hospitality sector and Learning.

What does it Involve?

As a member of the board of trustees, you’ll be involved in:

· Setting the FoBV’s strategic direction, setting goals/targets and monitoring progress

· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration and financial stability of FoBV and its assets

· Joining a sub-committee or working group of the board based on your skills and experience and contribute to delivering identified priorities

· Ensuring FoBV complies with its constitution, charity law, and other relevant legislation or regulations

· Contributing to the appointment, support and monitoring of staff and volunteers

· Safeguarding the reputation and values of FoBV

· Building relationships with stakeholders, members and supporters

· Occasionally representing FoBV at events and acting as a spokesperson

What is FoBV looking for?

We don't expect you to bring lots of previous experience as a trustee, but to be successful as a trustee you are likely to have:

· The ability to operate impartially and objectively

· Commitment to FoBV vision, values and strategy

· Able demonstrate knowledge and experience of the skillsets that we are looking for.

· Proven strategic thinking ability combined with ability to be ‘hands on’ with issues.

· The ability to network and build relationships at all levels

· The commitment to devote the necessary time and effort needed for this role

· Excellent communication skills along with tact and diplomacy

· Trustees are required to attend six board meetings a year and offer support to the charity as and when required. Trustees are expected to contribute to other aspects of running the charity where their skills, experience and time commitments allow it.

We are looking for four new trustees. We’re particularly keen to hear from people who can bring skills in the following areas:

· Learning/education

· Hospitality experience, particularly with events and café operations

· Marketing & Social Media

· Fundraising/ Grant Giving

We want to ensure our board is diverse and represents our local community. We welcome applications from groups who are under-represented on our Board currently, including women, people with a disability and people of colour.

Interviews to take place w/c 14th July 2025

We are looking for individuals to join our Board in 2025. In recent years we’ve increased and diversified the membership of the Board including the launch of our Associate Board Member programme in 2023. We are looking to continue this work with dynamic and committed people to support further growth and development, building on our achievements.

We want to recruit new Board Members, alongside an opportunity for two Associate Board Members.

Being a Board Member

Board Members play an integral role in providing robust governance and stewardship, in externally supporting future development through advocacy with regional, national and international stakeholders, potential funders and partners from the public and private sectors. Board Members benefit from working with a small, creative and enthusiastic team on the strategic development of the organisation.

What is an AND Associate Board Member?

We have developed a 12 month programme for two Associate Board Members. These roles will work alongside the AND Board of Trustees, and have been designed as a development  programme aimed to support potential candidates who do not yet have (sufficient) board-level experience, or the required availability, but have the passion and potential to be a future AND Board member.

The Associate Board Member roles have been created to support individuals who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, providing greater access to training opportunities, and to add further diversity and richness of perspective to the organisation.

Associate Board Members will:

• bring unique experience from their field of expertise 
• share our passion for new ideas and artforms
• place inclusion and engagement at the heart of our culture and vision
• be provided with relevant shadowing, mentoring or training opportunities to support their skills development over 12 months
• attend quarterly AND Board meetings (without legal responsibility or voting rights) 
• have the opportunity to apply to become a Board Member after 12 months

It is not necessary to have governance/board-level exposure or experience, but a general understanding of how boards work is required.

If you feel that you don’t quite meet the person specification in the recruitment pack but you’re excited and interested in the opportunity, please get in touch following the application process outlined below.

Joining the AND Board as a Trustee

We are currently looking for individuals to join the AND Board with experience in the following areas: 

• Strategic Regional Public Sector Knowledge
• Environmental Sustainability
• Charity Finance 
• PR / Digital Communications
• Regional commercial business knowledge across the creative sector, immersive and digital technologies

This isn’t an exhaustive list, and we’re interested in hearing from anyone who believes they have skills or experience to positively contribute to the organisation. We’re also looking for candidates interested in exploring a Vice Chair role with a view to future succession planning for AND Chair. We’re committed to opening up opportunities to people who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds, Disabled candidates and candidates under 30.

What is it like to be on the AND Board?

Read an interview with our Trustees Sam Bompass and Katie Moffat about being on the AND Board.

About AND

AND is an arts organisation known for creating radical, site-responsive projects at the intersection of art, technology and digital culture.

Working across the UK and internationally, AND commissions artists to explore the social, environmental and ethical implications of emerging technologies. Our portfolio includes large-scale outdoor artworks, exhibitions, research programmes, residencies, online projects and our flagship AND Festival — a nomadic biennial bringing cutting-edge digital experiences to diverse locations.

Our work often takes place in unexpected settings, from post-industrial towns to natural landscapes, creating space for bold experimentation and critical reflection. At our core, we champion interdisciplinary collaboration and are committed to inclusive, sustainable practices that challenge what is considered ‘normal’ in culture today

Practical Details

AND’s Board currently meets for a minimum of four times a year, through a mix of online, and in person meetings in Manchester (UK). There are additional, occasional meetings and sub-committee groups which can be attended via video call. We are particularly interested in hearing from North-based candidates, especially those with regional public sector or commercial business expertise, although we are open to applications from candidates from across the UK.

This is an unpaid role. You’ll need to commit around a day a month to the role. AND will reimburse reasonable travel expenses to meetings in full.

How to apply

• Read our AND Board Membership Recruitment Pack or our AND Associate Board Membership Pack
• If you’d like to speak informally about becoming an AND Board Member or Associate Board Member, you are welcome to request a conversation by Friday 30 May 2025
• Following this, we ask for a CV along with a short written statement (max 1 page) / video (max 3 minutes) to be submitted by Midnight Sunday 22 June 2025 with AND BOARD MEMBER ROLE or AND ASSOCIATE BOARD MEMBER ROLE as the subject field.
• Complete an Equal Opportunities Form (submitted anonymously)

Our Visitor Welcome volunteers create a positive first impression with a warm welcome; helping all visitors get all they need from their visit. You’ll also help us provide a personalised thank you, leaving people with a positive lasting impression. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who loves meeting people and being part of a team
• Looking for new experiences
• Wanting to utilise your communication skills or develop them further
• Someone who enjoys a busy environment
• Happy working outdoors in all weathers
• Comfortable being in a physically active role

Tasks and responsibilities

• Creating warm welcomes for every visitor, putting their needs first
• Sharing information, answering questions and helping visitors get the most out of their visit.
• Giving personalised ‘goodbyes’ and heartfelt ‘thank yous’
• Multi-tasking across the site to help us keep the property looking fabulous, reporting where something may need attention.
• Looking out for ways to do the little things that make a big difference. This might include driving visitors around on our Shuttle, or supporting in the bookshop.
• Helping visitors get their bearings and informing on the best routes around the property depending on their needs and our offer.
• Finding out what’s on offer at Ickworth and other local sites, so you can encourage people to do more, stay longe and bring others. Promote the National Trust and deepen their connection to our cause.
• Keeping in touch with the wider team, so you know what’s happening, particularly during event days.
• You are important in making sure things run as smoothly as possible – this includes getting to know health and safety and evacuation procedures.

By getting involved you could:

• Join an enthusiastic and varied team and form new friendships
• Volunteer at this beautiful and inspiring property
• Enjoy new experiences and learn something new every day
• Let your personality shine, and build connections with our visitors and wider property team
• Know you have made a difference to someone’s day out 

You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever. 

 All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Advice & Guidance, Bus/Van Driving, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Decision Making, Event Support, Fundraising, Guiding, Interpersonal Skills, Public Relations, Teamwork

Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees at Music For Youth (MFY); a national youth music charity that provides life-changing musical experiences for young people aged 25 and under. 

Music for Youth brings together over 40,000 young people a year to perform in live music festivals and concerts across the UK. The charity uniquely provides open access to young people, from whatever background or ability, to perform live to audiences: from grass-roots community halls to the Royal Albert Hall. We develop their musicianship, showcasing the richness and diversity of their music through our impactful live performance and development programmes. The wider social and life skills developed by participating in our events benefits all who take part and propels some of the UK's most promising young musicians onto career-changing platforms.

Our vision is to ensure that every young person in the UK can achieve their musical potential by performing the music they love. We believe that music, and the chance to participate in high-quality musical activities, should be open to every young person.

As Chair, you will guide a committed and experienced Board of Trustees, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, and champion our cause at the highest levels. 

This is a crucial time for Music For Youth, as we navigate a changing funding landscape and continue to innovate to reach even more young people.

If you are an experienced leader with a passion for the vision, mission, impact and potential of this unique organisation, we would love to hear from you.

About Us

Who We Are

Music For Youth is a national youth music charity that works with schools, youth groups, music hubs, and community organisations to break down barriers to music-making and showcase the incredible talent of young musicians.

Our Programmes and Impact

Each year, Music For Youth reaches over 40,000 young people across the UK, offering them platforms to develop their musical talents across all music genres, and gain confidence. Many of our alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and beyond.

National Music Festivals and Concerts:

We produce and stage high-quality professional standard live music events (including gigs, concerts, and festivals) for young musicians, both regionally at grass roots level, and at the UK’s most prestigious live music venues.

Young Artist Development:

We nurture and develop young musicians so they can realise their musical potential, by initiating adventurous collaborations, commissioning new music, and providing a robust music mentoring programme.

Creative Skills Development:

We provide skills and training development for young people looking for a career in the creative industries in non-performance and stagecraft roles such as stage management, sound engineering, lighting and digital production skills. 

Advocacy for Young Musicians:

We campaign to highlight the brilliance of young musicians.

Our work takes place across the whole of the UK with events in all nine regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This coverage enables us to support and tour the work of other partner organisations so they can reach young people further afield.

For over 50 years, Music for Youth’s annual cycle of regional festivals, local events, a national festival and showcase concerts has made a significant contribution to the music education calendar, bringing together regional providers and young performers, and putting young people’s own achievements into a wider national context:

The Music for Youth Regional Festival is a collection of festivals across the UK aimed to inspire musicians at every level of experience and across every genre of music. This collection of regional festivals forms the UK’s largest festival for young musicians. 30,000 musicians take part every year and many go on to perform again at the Music for Youth National Festival and Music for Youth Proms.

The National Festival is a coming together of musicians, bands and ensembles from across the regions to perform on world-class stages including Symphony Hall, and the CBSO Centre. It is a key date in the Music for Youth calendar, hosted by the city of Birmingham in July. Over 12,000 young musicians aged 4-21 from across the UK take part, featuring all styles, instruments and genres of music. 

The Music for Youth Proms takes place at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London. This two-day showcase celebrates the incredible diversity, talent and creativity of young musicians from all corners of the UK. From orchestral ensembles to choirs, bands, soloists, and more, these talented young performers get the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and share their music with a wider audience.

Staff and Head Office

Given the charity’s national reach, the head office recently relocated from London to Birmingham, now based in CBSO Centre (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) close to the city centre. The staff team of seven permanent staff are based across the UK, with hybrid home / office working arrangements.

Board and Governance

There are nine Trustees, each co-opted on to one (or more) subcommittees: the Audit & Risk Committee, Programmes Committee, and Fundraising Committee.

How Music For Youth is Funded

Music For Youth is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving 42% of its funds from the annual grant of £279,980 in 2023/24. In addition, the charity raises income from fundraising (sponsorship, institutions, individuals) totalling 33% of annual turnover £672,938 in 23/24, with 10.6% from earned income including event ticket sales of £71,785 in 2023/24. 

The charity’s turnover in 2023/24 was £672,938, ending the year with reserves of £101,224.

For further information, please see our latest Annual Account and Report here.

The Opportunity

We are excited to be seeking our next Chair of Trustees to lead the organisation, as our current Chair, John Dixon, comes to the end of his term of service. 

With an energetic, skilled and focused Executive Team led by Phil Castang MBE - and a highly experienced supportive Board of Trustees bringing their wealth of collective experience spanning leadership in music, education, arts, fundraising and industry - now is an exciting time to join this unique national music charity, as we prepare for the next phase of development.

The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and governance to Music For Youth, ensuring the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable, and delivering on its charitable objectives: 

Leadership 

• Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that it runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions. 
• Creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately. 
• Provide clear strategic direction for the charity, working with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals.
• Act as an ambassador for MFY as required, promoting our work and advocating for youth music at national and local levels.
• Support MFY in maintaining strong partnerships with funders, arts organisations, schools, and the wider music sector.

Governance & Compliance

• Lead an engaged and effective Board of Trustees, ensuring good governance and compliance with charity law.
• Manage, support and appraise the performance of the CEO, ensuring they and their senior leadership team have the resources and guidance to deliver MFY’s mission.
• Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational policies.

Fundraising & Advocacy

• Work with the Board and executive team to develop fundraising strategies, securing income from grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
• Represent MFY at high-profile events, engaging with stakeholders and championing the value of youth music.

What we are looking for

As our new Chair, you will share a commitment to the mission of Music For Youth. While it is not essential to be from a Music or Music Education background, we are looking for someone who has passion for the impact - and potential - of the charity and can demonstrate how their experience can help us navigate the pivotal years ahead.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
• Financial literacy
• High level networking and advocacy skills.
• Knowledge of charity and corporate governance.
• Experience and confidence in managing risk, change and innovation.
• Understanding and awareness of broader social, political and economic issues.

In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.

• Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
• Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
• Working in or with public bodies or national policy makers

The organisation recently undertook a Skills Audit of the Board and identified the following areas where we are looking to continue strengthening the experience. While not essential for the role of Chair, alongside the core skills and experience outlined, we would certainly welcome individuals who may also be able demonstrate experience around:

Digital: to take advantage of the potential for digital transformation

Finance: to provide additional oversight and financial rigor 

Fundraising: with income from individuals a future opportunity to explore further

Time Commitment

The Chair can expect to commit the equivalent of 12-15 days per year at - and in prep for - key Trustee meetings, including full Board Meetings held four times a year (at least one in person in Birmingham, where the charity is headquartered). This time also includes regular meetings with the CEO (the majority online), and regular comms with the CEO as required, which may ebb and flow, depending on the time of year. In person meetings are kept to a minimum.

In addition, the Chair would be expected to attend a minimum of two of our: Regional Festivals (March – April), National Festival (Birmingham or elsewhere, early-mid July) and the Youth Proms (London, end of November), to represent the Board and host key stakeholders, including funders. ,

Term 

We are looking for someone who can commit to an initial three-year term, which could then be renewed for a second term.

Learn more and apply

If you would like to have an exploratory conversation with the current Chair or Vice Chair about the charity or the role, please contact John Dixon (current Chair).

Application Process

To apply for the role of Chair at Music For Youth, please submit:

• 1. A CV.
• 2. A cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing:
• Why you are interested in this role.
• How your skills and experience align with MFY’s mission.
• What you would bring to the organisation.

Please send your CV and Cover Letter to Phil Castang (CEO) with the subject line: Application for Chair of Music For Youth.

Deadline for Applications: Friday 27th of June at 12pm.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Music for Youth National Festival taking place between Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th July in Birmingham. (Please note - this is not a requirement of the application process but a chance for you to see the work of the charity in person).

Interviews: will take place on Wednesday 10th September in Birmingham.

The week before the interview (week commencing 1st September), you will have the opportunity to have an informal conversation with the CEO and other Trustees online. Date to be confirmed.

If you have any access needs or other practical questions - or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the role with the Vice Chairs before applying - please get in contact.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Working Hours:
Sessional – typically 1 hour per workshop, with some sessions lasting 2 to 4 hours depending on the venue and format
Flexible scheduling across weekdays and occasional weekends

Pay Range:
£30–£40 per session (inclusive of expenses)
Rates may increase for extended or specialist sessions

Job Type:
Freelance / Sessional

Location:
Primarily London — in schools, youth centres, and charities
Occasional sessions held across other UK regions

About the Role:
Are you passionate about working with young people and using creativity to spark real change?

Penificent is seeking dynamic and socially conscious workshop facilitators to lead sessions exploring topics like identity, mental health, financial literacy, and storytelling. Through creative exercises like zine-making, comic-based discussions, or social media reflections, you’ll help participants build confidence, express themselves, and explore complex issues in engaging ways.

You don’t need to be an artist — but if you have creative skills (like drawing, digital illustration, or comic creation), that’s a great bonus. What matters most is your ability to connect with people, lead group sessions, and deliver workshops that educate and inspire.

You may also have opportunities to join us at Comic Con events, contribute to our growing content platforms, and help bring our Peace of War universe to life in fun and meaningful ways.

Key Responsibilities:
✅ Facilitate engaging and inclusive workshops
✅ Adapt materials to suit different ages and group needs
✅ Create a safe, inspiring environment that encourages expression
✅ Support setup and wrap-up of each session
✅ Collect participant feedback and report outcomes
✅ Follow safeguarding policies throughout

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Experience working with young people or community groups

• Confident in leading workshops or group sessions

• Passion for youth empowerment, education, or social issues

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Organised, reliable, and flexible

• Basic understanding of safeguarding and child protection

Desirable:

• Creative background (art, comics, zines, media, etc.)

• Experience working in schools or alternative education spaces

• Ability to travel to different venues across the UK

• Familiarity with storytelling as a tool for education or healing

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay: £30–£40 per session (incl. travel/expenses)

• Comic Con involvement: opportunities to represent Penificent at events

• Creative growth: potential to feature in our content or contribute to comics

• Supportive, impact-driven team

• Access to training and professional development

• Flexible freelance work with purpose

To Apply:
Send your CV and a short message telling us why you’re interested in this role. If you have a portfolio, samples of your work, or anything creative you’d like to share — feel free to include it!
 

We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience or from underrepresented communities. Let’s change the narrative together.