At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead change and inspire futures by supporting local academies in Somerset.
- Company: Join Cabot Learning Federation, a family of 36 academies dedicated to education.
- Benefits: Make a lasting impact, develop leadership skills, and connect with passionate volunteers.
- Other info: Flexible time commitment of around 1 hour per week, with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of learning and advocate for educational equity in your community.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just enthusiasm and commitment to make a difference.
Lead Change. Inspire Futures. Become an Academy Councillor with CLF. Volunteer and Make a Lasting Impact on Education Across Somerset!
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.
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.
The Somerset Cluster includes a mix of primary, secondary, and alternative provision academies.
Key Responsibilities of an Academy CouncillorAs a Sponsored Academy Councillor, you’ll act as a critical friend to the academy, providing challenge and support to Principals and leadership teams. Your responsibilities include:
- 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.
Why Volunteer with CLF?- Influence Education: Help guide strategic decisions and hold leaders accountable.
- Professional Growth: Develop skills in leadership, governance, 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.
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.
Somerset Cluster: Our Local Academies- Primary Academies (Ages 3–11)
- Castle Primary School & Nursery
- Minerva Primary School
- Priorswood Primary School
- The Redstart Primary School
- Secondary Academies (Ages 11–16)
- Kingsmead Academy
- Monkton Wood Academy
- Alternative Provision
- The Sky Academy – alternative provision supporting learners with additional needs
By clicking ‘Apply’ on the advert page, you will be re-directed to the CLF Governance Page. On this page, please access and complete the Expression of Interest form (towards the bottom of the page and titled ‘Express Your Interest’) and detail the academy you are interested in becoming an Academy Councillor. The Governance Team will pick this up and contact you directly to arrange an initial call/meeting, along with informing you about any other next steps of the process.
We welcome visits from potential volunteers. If you would like to arrange a school visit as part of your interest in becoming an Academy Councillor at one of our academies, please let us know during the initial call/meeting you have with a member of our Governance Team.
Safeguarding & InclusionWe take safeguarding seriously. All volunteers must complete an application form, provide references, and undergo checks, including a DBS.
Academy Councillor - Somerset Cluster in Bristol employer: Cabot Learning Federation
Join Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) as an Academy Councillor and make a meaningful impact on education in Somerset! As a volunteer, you'll be part of a supportive community dedicated to championing the wellbeing and success of young people. With opportunities for professional growth, networking with passionate individuals, and the chance to influence strategic decisions, CLF offers a rewarding experience that empowers you to help shape the future of learning in your local area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Academy Councillor - Somerset Cluster in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the academies in the Somerset Cluster! Familiarise yourself with their missions and challenges. This will help you connect better during meetings and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current Academy Councillors or volunteers in the CLF community. They can share insights and tips that could give you an edge when it comes to influencing education in your area.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Attend events, engage in discussions, and express your enthusiasm for the role. Showing initiative can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Fill out the Expression of Interest form and let us know why you’re passionate about becoming an Academy Councillor. We can’t wait to hear from you!
We think you need these skills to ace Academy Councillor - Somerset Cluster in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what drives your passion for education. Don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives.
Show Your Commitment:Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for volunteering and your dedication to making a difference in the community. We’re looking for people who genuinely care about helping young people thrive, so let that passion come across in your writing!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills and experiences with the key responsibilities of an Academy Councillor. This shows us that you understand the role and are ready to take on the challenge!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply via our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get in touch with you. Just click ‘Apply’ on the advert page and follow the steps to complete the Expression of Interest form.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cabot Learning Federation
✨Know Your Academies
Before your interview, take some time to research the specific academies within the Somerset Cluster. Familiarise yourself with their unique challenges and successes. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how you can contribute as an Academy Councillor.
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of an Academy Councillor. Be prepared to discuss how you can champion safeguarding, monitor risk, and hold leaders accountable. Think of examples from your own experience that demonstrate your ability to fulfil these duties.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for helping young people thrive. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that highlight your commitment to education and community impact. This will resonate well with the interviewers at CLF.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask during your interview. This could be about the strategic direction of the academies, how they measure success, or what challenges they currently face. Asking questions shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.
