Welcome to the AGBIS Governor Vacancies Board
This board is for our member schools to advertise any governor vacancies they have. If you are an AGBIS member school and would like to advertise your vacancy on this Board please get in touch on [email protected] and we will support you.
We also have a Clerk Vacancies Board, which you can view here.
There are currently vacancies in the following Schools:
- Our Lady's Preparatory School
- Holme Grange School
- King's Ely
- Abbey Gate College
- Rikkyo School
- Rishworth School
- Surbiton High School
- Merchant Taylors' School, Crosby
- King Edward VI Foundation
- St George's School, Weybridge
- The Unicorn School
- Dulwich Cranbrook
- Buckswood School
Please use the links above or scroll down to view details of the current vacancies and how to apply:
Our Lady’s Preparatory School
Vacancy: Multiple Governors
Location: Crowthorne, Berkshire
Description: Our Lady’s Preparatory School is looking to recruit a number of Trustees to add to our current governing body of five. Of particular interest are candidates with commercial and financial experience, and those with a background in early years learning, but the primary requirement is for Trustees with the energy and skills to contribute to the strategic direction of this values driven School.
Our Lady’s is a charitable incorporated organisation, which accepts children in its Nursery from the age of three months, and its Preparatory School from the age of five. The Nursery currently accommodates some 120 children, and there are a further 130 children in the School where they are able to remain until the age of eleven. As a Catholic school our mission is to provide an inclusive, faith-based learning environment where, all year round, we build community and aim to prepare our children for life in the 21st century.
We offer a broad, balanced and enhanced curriculum. We believe that every child should be challenged to achieve their full potential in an atmosphere of care and concern for their well-being, seeking at the same time to foster in children a curiosity and a real enjoyment of lifelong learning. This approach was recognised by our most recent ISI Inspection of the School in which we were assessed as good in academic achievement, and excellent in pupils’ pastoral care and well-being. Likewise, our Nursery was assessed as good in all areas, offering good teaching and excellent additional, targeted support
How to apply: To learn more about the Trustee role at Our Lady’s please contact our Chair of Trustees, Mr Matthew Ware at [email protected] using the subject “Trustee Application”.
Holme Grange School
Vacancy: Multiple governors
Location: Wokingham, Berkshire
Description: Holme Grange School is seeking to augment its governance by recruiting new Board members.
Throughout our 80-year history Holme Grange has benefitted from a Governing Body which works with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure we provide a high quality education in an authentic, ambitious, courageous learning community. Holme Grange is an all-through school for 750 children aged 2 to 16 set in over 21 acres of idyllic grounds in Wokingham, Berkshire.
The School is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, so Governors are both Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. The Board of Governors comprises a combination of professionals, business leaders, members of the local community, all of whom bring individual skills, insights, and experience.
There are currently eight Governors. The Board delegates key strategic areas to subcommittees responsible for Finance, Administration and Estates, and Education and Welfare.
Previous Board experience in education or other sectors is not necessary but would be beneficial. We are particularly interested to hear from those with experience in finance or accounting, law or business management.
How to Apply: If you are able to offer your expertise or know of someone who may be interested in the role, please contact our Clerk to the Governors, Mr Anthony Cook, via email [email protected]
Holme Grange is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All candidates must be willing to undergo child protection screening.
King’s Ely
Vacancy: Two Governors: Finance Governor and Information Technology Governor.
Location: Ely, Cambridgeshire
Description: King’s Ely can trace its origins from at least 970AD, making it one of the oldest schools in Europe. Originally a monastic foundation, today it is a thriving independent day and boarding school for around 1000 boys and girls aged from 2-18. The School is subdivided into four sections: King’s Ely Senior (age 13-18) and King’s Ely Prep (age 7-13), which occupy adjacent campuses and shared facilities, King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery (ages 2-6) and Fairstead House including Fairstead House Nursery which is in NewmarketHpusde .
The expectation is that Governors will attend all Board meetings (usually four per year), including any Strategy Day, and the meetings of any Committees of which they are a member. In addition, Governors are expected to attend Governor and other relevant training as well as visit the School on a regular basis and spend time reading around issues of governance and education.
It is anticipated that a Governor commitment will be between 12 and 16 days per year. Governors who are the Chair or Vice Chair of the Board or a Chair of a Committee are likely to spend more time to meet their governance duties.
All Governor roles are voluntary and subject to enhanced DBS and full clearance checks.
As Finance Governor we are looking for someone with senior leadership experience in a large organisation with commercial and financial accountability or finance management, and degree level or professional financial qualification or equivalent in Finance Management or business.
As Information Technology Governor we are looking for someone to provide oversight, monitoring and guidance of the School’s IT infrastructure and services plans to ensure that these support the School’s Strategic Development Plan, and day-to-day operations.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please do visit our website to find further information.
How to apply: Expressions of interest are welcome, consisting of a covering letter and CV to Dr Roger Axworthy, Clerk to the Governors at [email protected].
Abbey Gate College
Vacancy: Governors
Location: Saighton Grange, Chester
Description: As part of our succession plan we are seeking to appoint new governors. The governors of the College also act as charity trustees and company directors. The role is at the strategic level in a non-executive capacity, the College being run very effectively at an operational level by the Head and leadership team. We are committed to delivering excellent education in a safe and nurturing environment. The Staff working at the College fully support the Board and work diligently in delivering the Strategic Plan.
The Board has 5 Committees helping to deliver the core business under the remits of Education, Wellbeing, Finance, Promotions and Estates. This is a voluntary position, but governors' expenses, which are directly incurred and approved, will be covered, including training costs.
Skills sought:
Roles for aspiring governors are available on each of our Board committees requiring skills in education, finance, safeguarding, business, marketing, IT, estate management, HR and general company and employment law.
How to Apply: If you believe you have the necessary skills or are looking to develop your skills still further and are seeking a non-executive director position in the independent education sector we would be pleased to hear from you. In the first instance, this might involve a Teams meeting with the current chair and the company secretary to answer your questions and generally provide more information. Please contact the [email protected] to express your interest in a role.
=Rikkyo School
Vacancies:
- Chair of the Finance & General Purposes Committee
- Governor
Location: 30 minutes from Guildford in Surrey just outside the village of Rudgewick
Description: Rikkyo School in England is a coeducational, Japanese boarding school for 180 students between the ages of 10 and 18. Students follow a Japanese, bicultural curriculum taught largely by Japanese teaching staff in Japanese. Key posts on the SMT and operational framework are English-speaking and familiar with the UK independent education.
We have two vacancies on the Governance Advisory Board:
- Chair of the Finance & General Purposes Committee - we are looking for someone with senior leadership experience in a large organisation with commercial and financial accountability or finance management, and a professional financial qualification or equivalent in Finance Management or business.
- Governor - We are interested to recruit people from a wide range of professional backgrounds especially legal or estates management, not retired teachers (we have two already).
The Trustees of Rikkyo are largely Japanese nationals, the majority living in Japan. The tasks of the Governance Advisory Board is hold the senior management to account for the day-to-day running of the School, compliance with the Independent Schools Regulations Standards (ISSR), and to advice the Board of Trustees accordingly.
Members of the Governance Advisory Board have no financial liability and are remunerated. Appointments are for three years and Governors are expected to attend three subcommittee, three main board, three visits (all half-days), and one strategic planning day in any single year.
How to Apply: Apply to the Chair of the Governance Advisory Board [email protected] by sending your CV and a short note as to why the role might suit you.
Rishworth School
Vacancies: Multiple Governors
Location: Halifax, West Yorkshire
Description: Rishworth School is seeking new Governors to help shape the school’s strategic direction. We welcome expressions of interest from individuals who are passionate about education and eager to contribute to the school’s ongoing success.
As a forward-thinking and innovative independent day and boarding school, Rishworth educates students aged 3-18 while upholding strong traditional values. Set in the heart of West Yorkshire, the school has been located in its stunning 140-acre grounds for over 300 years.
Rishworth School operates as a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, meaning Governors also serve as Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. The Board currently consists of 10 Governors from a variety of professional backgrounds, including former students and parents. To effectively oversee key strategic areas, the Board delegates responsibilities across several sub-committees:
- Finance & Business
- Audit & Risk
- Marketing & Admissions
- Quality of Education
- Safeguarding & Pastoral
A Social & Economic Development Sub-Committee is also planned for the next 12 months.
We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with experience in Law, HR, Marketing, Finance, or Estate Management, although applications from those with other relevant expertise are also welcome. Prior experience as a Governor is not required. We are looking for individuals who support the school’s Aims and Values, understand the challenges faced by independent schools, and can bring a commercial perspective to help explore future opportunities.
This is a voluntary role, subject to an enhanced DBS check and full clearance procedures.
If you are interested in contributing to the future of Rishworth School, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply: If you would like a further discussion on the roles, in the first instance please contact Miss Ayesha Blacker, Clerk to the Governors at [email protected]
Surbiton High School
Vacancies: Three governors in Architecture / Estates Management, Secondary School / Higher Education, and Pastoral Care (Social Services, General Practice, Counselling)
Location: Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey
Description: Surbiton High School is seeking three exceptional individuals to join our Local Governing Body (LGB). This is a voluntary role offering the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the education and well-being of pupils at Surbiton High School. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in the following fields:
- Architecture / Estates Management – A professional architect or someone with expertise in overseeing building projects, estate development, or facilities and space management. Experience in educational or heritage sites would be advantageous.
- Secondary School / Higher Education – An individual with a strong background in teaching, curriculum development, or educational leadership at the secondary or higher education level. Knowledge of independent education and regulatory frameworks is desirable.
- Pastoral Care (Social Services, General Practice, Counselling) – A candidate with significant experience in child well-being, safeguarding, or mental health. A background in social services, healthcare, or counselling at a senior level would be highly beneficial.
As a Governor, you will play a crucial role in supporting the strategic direction of the School, ensuring high standards of education and well-being for all pupils. If you have the necessary skills, character and time to contribute to this exceptional environment, we invite you to apply to become part of the Surbiton High School community, where excellence meets passion. Please refer to the Role Description and Person Specification for further details.
How to Apply: Please apply by completing the Application Form and sending this, along with a copy of your CV to [email protected].
Merchant Taylors' School, Crosby
Vacancy: Three governors in Estates and/or Health and Safety, Music and the Arts, Human Resources
Location: Crosby, near Liverpool
Description:
Merchant Taylors’ is one of the finest schools in the North West of England, founded 400 years ago in Crosby, near Liverpool. We provide an excellent independent education to just under 1,000 girls and boys aged four to 18 years across three prestigious heritage sites.
We are currently looking for committed volunteers to join our Board of Governors. Led by the Chair of Governors, the Board is responsible for the holistic wellbeing of Merchant Taylors’, taking or endorsing strategic and financial decisions, monitoring the School’s educational and pastoral provision and preserving its extensive estate, which includes Grade II and Grade II* listed buildings.
The Board of Governors works as a team and is appointed from a variety of backgrounds, united by a commitment to the education and care of our children and the continued success of the School. Governors do not need any formal qualifications, but must be aged 18 years old and over. The appointment is for three years, with the possibility of re-appointment up to a maximum of three terms. The School has high expectations of the time and commitment required from its Governors in order to fulfil their roles effectively. Importantly, this includes attendance at certain key events throughout the academic year, such as School Speech Days, as well as a number of Board and sub-Committee Meetings, some of which occur outside of working hours.
We are particularly interested in applications from individuals from the following backgrounds:
- Estates and/or Health and Safety
- Music and the Arts
- Human Resources
Please do not be discouraged from applying if you don’t have these skills, as your enthusiasm and potential contribution to Merchant Taylors’ is just as important. At the current time, due to restrictions within our Articles of Association, we are not able to take applications from current parents of the School or alumni.
How to Apply: If you are interested in applying or would like further information, please request an application form from Mrs Jill Cheseldine, Clerk to the Board of Governors/Executive Assistant, via [email protected] (Please note that the closing date for applications is Friday 30 May 2025).
King Edward VI Foundation
Vacancy: Multiple Governors
Location: Birmingham
Description: King Edward's School (KES) is an independent day school for boys located in Edgbaston, Birmingham, and founded by King Edward VI in 1552. King Edward VI High School for Girls (KEHS) was founded as a sister school in 1883. Both schools moved to their current site from the city centre in the 1930s and educate students aged 11-18. They form part of the Schools of King Edward VI in Birmingham foundation charity, which also sponsors a multi-academy trust, King Edward VI Academy Trust, Birmingham. The two schools have a joint governing body, which is a committee of the foundation’s board, and a joint senior leadership team led by a Chief Master & Principal.
The Board of Governors currently comprises of 13 Governors with a range of backgrounds and professional experience. We are now looking for additional members with professional experience in a specific range of fields including property management, surveying or similar, Higher Education, and Special Educational Needs to enhance our current skill set. Previous governor experience would be beneficial but is not a requirement. An interest in the education and personal development of young people is essential.
The Governing Board meet 3 times per year and have one half day Strategy Day. Members are also expected to support one sub-committee from either Education, Finance and Estates, or Risk & Compliance depending on their skill set, which also meet 3 times per year.
Most meetings are held in person, but hybrid meeting options are available.
How to Apply: Any expressions of interest should be made to the Head of Governance [email protected]
Vacancy: Multiple Governors
Location: Weybridge, Surrey
Description: Due to the upcoming retirement of a number of Governors over the next two years, St George’s Weybridge is seeking to recruit several Governors with skills across a number of areas.
St George’s Weybridge is a leading independent co-educational Catholic day school in Surrey for girls and boys aged 2-18. It was founded in 1869 and has a distinctive Josephite ethos. Academically autonomous, the Junior School and College work together as one school, educating over 1,600 students across the two school sites. Both Schools had full ISI inspections in March 2024 and were fully compliant.
St George’s Weybridge is proudly and unequivocally a school where children can learn and grow into kind, considerate adults who make a positive contribution to society. There is a perfect balance between the Junior School and the College, between academia, creativity and sport. Together with our Josephite ethos, these are what make St George’s unique – and what makes the children who leave us exceptional.
We have a vibrant, engaged and talented Governing Body. It currently comprises 11 Governors with a range of backgrounds and professional experience. In recent years, we have evolved our meeting schedule to be a hybrid of both formats (in person and online) and timings (day and evening). These are scheduled at least 12 months in advance.
We welcome interest regardless of age or stage in career, as we continually seek to diversify our board. In addition, to preserve the balance mandated by our governing documents, we currently require new board members to be Catholic.
We warmly welcome you to apply for the position if you feel you have the requisite skills
How to Apply: Any expressions of interest should be made to the Clerk to the Governors Catherine Punt at [email protected]
Vacancy: Fundraising and Marketing Governor
Location: Oxfordshire
Description: The Board of Governors currently comprises 11 Governors with a range of backgrounds and professional experience. We are now looking for an additional member with professional experience in Fundraising and Marketing to enhance our current skill set. Previous governor experience would be beneficial but is not a requirement. An interest in the education and personal development of young people is essential.
The Governing Board meet 3 times per year. Our new Fundraising and Marketing Governor will also be expected to join the Fundraising and Marketing sub-committee, which also meets 3 times per year.
Role and Responsibilities
As a Governor with a focus on fundraising and marketing, you will:
- Support the implementation of the fundraising strategy, while also identifying and recommending additional strategies to support the school’s financial sustainability and growth.
- Enhance the school’s marketing efforts to increase visibility, attract new students and support fundraising.
- Work closely with the Board, Senior Management Team and Executive Team to align fundraising and marketing initiatives with the school’s strategic goals.
- Engage with the local community, alumni, and potential donors to build strong relationships and secure funding.
- Provide oversight and guidance on marketing campaigns, events, and promotional activities.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising and marketing efforts,
- making recommendations for improvement.Fundraising and Marketing Governor
Skills and Experience
We are looking for individuals who have:
- Experience in fundraising, marketing, or a related field
- To be aware of relevant legislation and best practices around fundraising and marketing. Examples include GDPR and the code of fundraising practice.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- A passion for education and a commitment to the values and mission of The Unicorn School.
- The ability to work collaboratively with other governors and the school’s leadership team.
- Previous governance experience is not required, but it is beneficial.
How to apply: If you are interested in joining our Board and making a significant impact on thefuture of The Unicorn School, please send a brief CV and cover letter to [email protected] by Friday 13 June 2025.
Vacancy: EYFS Governor
Location: Kent
Description: Nestled in the heart of Kent and yet within easy reach of London, Dulwich Cranbrook offers an all-encompassing day and flexible boarding experience to over 400 boys and girls between the ages of 2 and 16, all within 50 acres of stunning grounds. The School, together with Dulwich Prep London, is a subsidiary of Dulwich Preparatory Schools Trust.
The School was one of the first preparatory schools to move to co-education in the 1970s and its tradition of innovation has endured ever since. Following the recent opening of our phone-free Senior School, the expansion up to GCSE is an exciting next stage in the School’s development. Sophie Bradshaw was appointed as Head of School from September 2023 and a new Director of Finance and Operations joined in August 2024.
Dulwich Cranbrook is proud to offer a full spectrum of academic and co-curricular opportunities to its pupils, ensuring that excellence in the classroom is complemented by a fulfilling and varied programme outside it. We champion an individualised approach to learning – inspiring and supporting each and every child to fulfil their potential, and equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to navigate their own unique educational pathway. This educational philosophy is at the core of our offer, from Early Years right through to GCSE. Beyond the classroom, our vast and varied co-curricular programme gives every pupil the opportunity to discover their passions, find their strengths and personalise their week. It is a vital component of Dulwich life, in order to equip children with the skillset, confidence and drive to forge a future-ready path for themselves.
The School is now looking to appoint a new EYFS Governor to provide strong strategic oversight, support, and accountability for the delivery and quality of early years education within the Prep School section of Dulwich Cranbrook.
The Role
The role of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) Governor is to provide strategic oversight, support, and accountability for the delivery and quality of early years education within the Prep School section of Dulwich Cranbrook. This role ensures that the school meets the statutory requirements of the EYFS framework and aligns with the School’s overall aims and ethos. The EYFS Governor is a member of the Education Committee.
How to apply
Download the candidate information pack. We welcome applications from the widest possible diversity of backgrounds, and appointments are made on merit following a fair and transparent process. If you would like to apply, please send your CV with a covering letter explaining why you believe you are suitable for the role by 31 July 2025 to [email protected].
Applications will be reviewed and you will be notified of the outcome of these discussions. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited for interview (we plan to hold the first stage interviews online and the final stage on site at the School)
If you would like a confidential, informal conversation about the role, please contact our Clerk to the Governors.
Buckswood
Vacancy: Chair of Advisory Governing Body and various Advisory Governing Body members
Location: East Sussex
Description: We are seeking experienced and dedicated professionals to join our Advisory Governing Body (AGB) at our prestigious proprietorial school. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the school and ensuring its continued success. The AGB advises the Proprietor and school leadership team on key areas, providing expertise and support across various school functions. View full details here.
Why Join Us?
As a member of the Advisory Governing Body, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of our school. You will be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking team that works closely with the Proprietor and senior leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact on the strategic direction of the school and support the development of our students and staff.
The Roles
Chair of the Advisory Governing Body
To lead the Advisory Governing Body (AGB), providing strategic direction and oversight to ensure the school’s vision and mission are achieved effectively.
AGB Member for Boarding
To oversee and advise on the welfare, safety, and quality of the boarding provision.
AGB Member for Safeguarding/Independent Safeguarding Advisor
To act as a critical friend on safeguarding policies and practice, ensuring that student welfare remains paramount.
AGB Member for Education
To oversee and advise on the quality of teaching, learning, and the curriculum offering across the school.
AGB Member for Facilities
To oversee and advise on the management, safety, and development of the school's physical resources.
AGB Member for Human Resources (HR)
To advise on HR strategies, policies, and practices that ensure the school attracts, develops, and retains high-quality staff.
Person Specification (for all roles):
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
• Relevant professional experience in the field of education, boarding, safeguarding, facilities management, or HR.
• Proven ability to provide expert advice and support at a strategic level.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to challenge constructively and support staff and leadership.
• Commitment to the school’s ethos and ensuring the wellbeing and success of all students and staff.
Desirable Experience:
• Previous experience in school governance or in leadership roles within an educational setting.
• Experience within an independent or proprietorial school context is advantageous.
• A qualification or specific expertise in the relevant field is highly desirable.
How to apply
For further details or to express your interest in any of the roles, please contact us at [email protected] or call 01424 813813 to discuss further.