At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and challenge academy leaders to improve student outcomes and wellbeing.
- Company: Join Cabot Learning Federation, a network of 36 academies dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Gain governance skills, make a community impact, and connect with passionate volunteers.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of shaping education and making a difference in young people's lives.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just enthusiasm and a commitment to education.
- Other info: Flexible time commitment of around 1 hour per week, perfect for students and busy individuals.
As a Sponsored Academy Councillor, you'll act as a critical friend to the academy, providing challenge and support to Principals and leadership teams.
Responsibilities
- Attend Council Meetings regularly (around 5 per year, 2 hours each).
- Champion Safeguarding & Wellbeing: Ensure health and safety policies are implemented and statutory training is met.
- Monitor Risk & Improvement: Review risk registers, academy improvement plans, and responses to Ofsted/DfE inspections.
- Hold Leaders to Account: Oversee student attainment, attendance, and curriculum effectiveness.
- Policy & Compliance: Approve and monitor local policies and procedures.
- Panel Participation: Take part in panels for exclusions, complaints, and key decisions.
- Financial Oversight: Review financial plans and monitor resource allocation.
- Recruitment & Appraisal: Engage in senior leadership recruitment and contribute to Principal appraisals.
- Champion Inclusion: Advocate for disadvantaged pupils and educational equity.
- Act as an Ambassador for the academy, its pupils, and staff.
Average time commitment: around 1 hour per week across the year.
About Cabot Learning Federation (CLF)
CLF is a family of 36 academies including primary, secondary, all-through schools, and post-16 provision spanning Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Gloucester, Weston-Super-Mare, and Somerset. Our shared purpose is simple: every child deserves the best possible start in life.
Benefits & Opportunities
- Professional Growth: Develop skills in governance, leadership, and strategic planning.
- Community Impact: Make a tangible difference to children and families in your area.
- Networking: Connect with over 300 passionate volunteers across the South West.
Who Weβre Looking For
We welcome volunteers from all walks of life. No prior education experience needed, just enthusiasm and commitment. We especially encourage applications from underrepresented and global majority groups.
Bristol Cluster β Academies
Primary Academies (Ages 3β11)
- Begbrook Primary Academy
- Evergreen Academy
- Frome Vale Academy
- Lansdown Park Academy
- Minerva Primary Academy
- Summerhill Academy
- Wicklea Academy
- Woodlands Academy
Secondary Academies (Ages 11β16)
- Bristol Brunel Academy
- Bristol Metropolitan Academy
- City Academy Bristol
Alternative Provision - Snowdon Village
Snowdon Village provides specialist education through four distinct provisions:
- Bristol Futures β supporting students with complex needs
- Engage β tailored intervention for learners requiring additional support
- Nest β therapeutic and nurturing environments
- City School β bespoke education for students needing alternative pathways
Are you passionate about helping young people thrive? Do you want to influence education in your community? At Cabot Learning Federation (CLF), we're looking for committed volunteers to join our Academy Councils and help shape the future of learning.
Academy Councillor - Bristol Cluster employer: Cabot Learning Federation
Contact Detail:
Cabot Learning Federation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Academy Councillor - Bristol Cluster
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current Academy Councillors or staff at CLF. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those meetings! Familiarise yourself with the academy's goals and challenges. This way, you can contribute meaningfully and impress everyone with your insights.
β¨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education! Share your thoughts on how to champion safeguarding and wellbeing. Your enthusiasm will shine through and make you stand out.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itβs the easiest way to get your application noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Academy Councillor - Bristol Cluster
Some tips for your application π«‘
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so donβt be afraid to share your passion for education and community.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to align your skills and experiences with the responsibilities listed in the job description. Highlight how your background can contribute to championing safeguarding, inclusion, and overall student wellbeing.
Show Your Commitment: Weβre looking for enthusiastic individuals who are ready to make a difference. In your application, express your dedication to supporting the academy and its students, and mention any relevant experiences that showcase this commitment.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, please apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way for us to keep track of your application and connect with you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cabot Learning Federation
β¨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of an Academy Councillor. Understand the importance of championing safeguarding and wellbeing, as well as monitoring risk and improvement. This will help you articulate how your skills align with the role during the interview.
β¨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for education and community impact. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to helping young people thrive. This will resonate with the interviewers and show that you genuinely care about the role.
β¨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the challenges the academy faces or how they measure success in student attainment and wellbeing. This shows that you're engaged and serious about contributing to the academy's mission.
β¨Highlight Inclusivity
Emphasise your understanding of educational equity and inclusion. Discuss any relevant experiences or perspectives you have that can help advocate for disadvantaged pupils. This aligns perfectly with the values of Cabot Learning Federation and will make you stand out.