Brighter Futures Educational Trust is a growing  SEMH multi-academy trust which is a mix of primary and secondary schools with the vision to ‘provide education and opportunities that change lives.’

Brighter Futures Educational Trust (BFET), established in 2016, is a growing Multi Academy Trust supporting primary and secondary Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. BFET is committed to improving life opportunities for young people aged 5 to 16 through tailored support and shared expertise.

Our mission is to promote an inclusive environment for all, whilst striving for excellence in every individual.

The Role

Members occupy a position similar to shareholders in a company. They sit above the Board of Trustees and have a largely strategic, non-operational role. Members do not manage the Trust day to day; instead, they ensure that the Trust is well governed and that trustees are acting in the best interests of pupils and in line with the Trust’s charitable objects.

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

Key Responsibilities

Members are responsible for:

• Furthering and protecting the Trust’s charitable objects.

• Appointing Trustees in accordance with the Trust’s articles of association.

• Holding Trustees to account for the effective governance and leadership of the Trust.

Members also have the power to:

• Amend the Trust’s articles of association by special resolution.

• Appoint new Members or remove existing Members.

• Appoint and remove Trustees in line with the articles.

• Appoint and remove the Trust’s auditors.

• Change the name of the Trust or, ultimately, wind up the Trust.

• Direct Trustees to take specific action where they are unable or unwilling to act in the best interests of the Trust.

These powers are expected to be used sparingly, responsibly and, wherever possible, in cooperation with the Board of Trustees.

What the Role Involves in Practice

• Attending at least one meeting per year, the Annual General Meeting (AGM), which may be held virtually.

• Receiving and reviewing the Trust’s audited annual report and accounts.

• Taking a high-level overview of the Trust’s governance and operations.

• Remaining informed about how the Board of Trustees is performing.

• Raising any concerns with the Trustees so they can take appropriate action.

Additional meetings may be held if the Trust is undergoing significant change or if governance matters require closer oversight.

What Members Do Not Do

Members do not:

• Attend or vote at Board of Trustees meetings (unless they also serve as Trustees).

• Take part in executive leaders’ performance management.

• Make operational or day-to-day decisions about the Trust’s business.

• Hold legal responsibility for running the Trust – this rests with the Board of Trustees.

  Commitment

  The time commitment is modest, typically involving:

• Attendance at the AGM (and occasional additional meetings if required).

• Reading key governance documents, including annual accounts and reports.

  Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

• Are committed to high standards of governance and public accountability.

• Have integrity, independence of thought and sound judgement.

• Are willing to provide appropriate challenge while respecting the distinct role of Trustees.

• Support the Trust’s vision, values and commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

Prior governance experience is helpful but not essential.