Are you passionate about improving life chances for children and young people? We are seeking a principled, strategic and independent individual to join our Trust as a Member. 

Members play a vital constitutional role within an academy trust. Similar to shareholders in a company, Members sit above the Board of Governors and provide high-level, non-operational oversight. They ensure the Trust is well governed, remains true to its charitable objects, and that Governors are effectively fulfilling their responsibilities. 

This is an opportunity to use your professional expertise to safeguard strong governance, accountability and long-term sustainability across our Trust.

 The Role of a Member

Members operate under the principle of “eyes on, hands off” governance. They do not manage the Trust day to day; instead, they provide strategic assurance and hold Governors to account. 

In line with the Department for Education’s model Articles of Association, the majority of Members must not also serve as Governors, ensuring clear separation between oversight and governance.

 Key Responsibilities

Members are responsible for:

• furthering and protecting the Trust’s charitable objects
• appointing (and where necessary removing) Governors in accordance with the Articles of Association
• holding Governors to account for effective governance and leadership
• receiving and reviewing the Trust’s audited annual report and accounts at the Annual General Meeting (AGM)
• ensuring the Trust remains compliant with regulatory expectations and governance standards

Members also have the power to: 

• Amend the Trust’s Articles of Association (by special resolution)
• appoint or remove Members
• appoint and remove the Trust’s auditors 
• direct Governors to take specific action where governance falls below required standards
• ultimately, change the Trust’s name or wind up the Trust if necessary

These powers are used sparingly, responsibly and in the best interests of the Trust and its pupils.

What the Role Involves in Practice

•        attending at least one meeting per year (the AGM), held on site
•        attending occasional additional meetings (typically 2–3 per year) if governance matters require oversight
•        reading and reviewing key governance documents, including annual accounts and reports
•         maintaining a high-level understanding of the Trust’s performance and strategic direction
•         raising constructive challenge where appropriate

What Members Do Not Do

Members do not do:

• attend or vote at Board of Governor meetings (unless they also serve as Governors)
• participate in executive leaders’ performance management
• make operational or day-to-day decisions
• hold legal responsibility for running the Trust (this rests with the Governors)

 Who We Are Looking For

• We welcome applications from individuals who:
•  are committed to high standards of governance and public accountability
• demonstrate integrity, independence of thought and sound judgement
• are willing to provide appropriate challenge while respecting governance boundaries
• support our vision and values and our commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people

 In light of current Academy Trust Handbook priorities, we are particularly interested in

individuals with expertise in:

•  Strategic Governance & Risk – senior oversight experience in public, private or charitable sectors
• Financial Scrutiny – ability to interpret complex financial information and ensure sustainability and value for money
• Digital & Cyber Resilience – awareness of digital strategy and data protection standards
• Estates & Sustainability – understanding of long-term infrastructure and climate responsibility
• Prior governance experience is helpful but not essential

 Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to contribute at a strategic level, ensuring strong governance and accountability while positively impacting the education and wellbeing of children and young people. 

Please Note: This is an unpaid, voluntary role. If you would like to find out more then please contact Tracey Brook, Principal’s PA, via email  - staff.tbrook@kingjames.school 

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds to ensure our Board reflects the communities we serve. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants.