Trustee (Estates and Health & Safety) at Brighter Futures Educational Trust

New

Job Reference #

EDV/2026/BFET/87664

Location

Larwood School, Larwood Drive, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 5BZ

Contract Type

Permanent

Contract Term

Not Applicable

Closing Date

Midnight, Fri 17th Jul, 2026

Positions Available

Positions Available 1

About this Role

Audit & Risk Trustee Opportunity (Estates and Health & Safety)

Help Shape Safe, Effective Learning Environments for Vulnerable Young People

Brighter Futures Educational Trust is seeking a committed and experienced Trustee with expertise in Estates, Health & Safety, Risk Management or Compliance to join our Board and support the work of our Audit and Risk Committee.

Are you looking for an opportunity to use your professional skills to make a meaningful difference in your local community?
Do you believe every child deserves access to a safe, supportive and well-maintained learning environment?
Do you have experience in estates management, facilities, health and safety, risk management, compliance or a related field?
Would you like to contribute your expertise while developing your strategic leadership and governance experience?

This is a rewarding opportunity to support a specialist multi-academy trust providing education for nearly 200 pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs across North Hertfordshire, with ambitions for future growth.

About the Trust

Brighter Futures Educational Trust is a small trust that makes a significant difference. The Trust comprises two specialist schools:

Larwood School – a mixed primary provision
Brandles School – a boys' secondary provision

Together, our schools provide outstanding educational pathways within nurturing environments for children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs and behavioural difficulties.

About the Role

As a Trustee, you will be part of the Trust Board, helping to ensure that the Trust operates effectively, safely and in accordance with its legal and regulatory responsibilities.

We are particularly seeking an individual who can bring specialist knowledge and experience to support the Trust's oversight of:

Estates strategy and asset management
Health and safety compliance
Risk management and assurance
Business continuity and operational resilience
Premises development and maintenance
Regulatory compliance and governance

As a member of the Audit and Risk Committee, you will provide independent scrutiny and constructive challenge, helping the Trust identify, manage and mitigate risks while ensuring that our schools remain safe environments for pupils, staff and visitors.

We Would Particularly Welcome Applications From Individuals With Experience In:

Estates or facilities management
Health and safety leadership or consultancy
Construction, property or building services
Compliance, risk management or assurance
Project management and capital works
Environmental, sustainability or premises-related disciplines
Public sector, education, charity or commercial organisations

Experience within education is beneficial but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

As a Trustee and member of the Audit and Risk Committee, you will support the Board by:

Monitoring strategic risks and reviewing risk management processes
Providing oversight and challenge regarding health and safety compliance
Supporting the development and monitoring of estates strategies and premises projects
Reviewing internal controls, assurance reports and compliance arrangements
Helping ensure that resources and facilities are managed effectively and sustainably
Contributing to a culture of safety, accountability and continuous improvement

Time Commitment

The role is voluntary but highly rewarding.

Trustees can expect to commit to:

Six Board meetings per year (three in person and three online)
Four Audit and Risk Committee meetings per year (online)
One school visit per term
Occasional training and development activities

A comprehensive induction and ongoing training programme will be provided.

About You

We are looking for individuals who:

Have professional experience in estates, facilities, health and safety, risk, compliance or a related field
Are committed to improving outcomes for children and young people
Can analyse information, identify risks and contribute to strategic decision-making
Are able to provide supportive yet constructive challenge
Have strong communication and interpersonal skills
Work effectively as part of a team while maintaining an independent perspective
Are committed to their own development and to the responsibilities of governance

Previous trustee or governance experience is welcomed but not essential.

Commitment to Diversity

Brighter Futures Educational Trust is committed to ensuring diversity across all aspects of its governance. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences and communities, recognising that a diverse Board strengthens decision-making and helps us better serve the children and young people in our care.

By sharing your estates, health and safety or risk management expertise, you can help ensure that our schools remain safe, effective and inspiring environments where vulnerable young people can thrive.