At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dedicated board to oversee and enhance outdoor learning experiences for young people.
- Company: St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust, a registered charity focused on youth development.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with reasonable expenses reimbursed and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with approximately 3-4 meetings per year and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Help shape the future of outdoor education and support young people's growth and resilience.
- Qualifications: Experience in outdoor education or leadership roles is a plus; passion for youth development is essential.
The St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust owns and oversees the Mill, a residential outdoor learning centre in the Surrey Hills National Landscape. The Mill provides outdoor and residential experiences for young people from London, particularly pupils of William Ellis School, an inclusive, all boys’ state comprehensive school in Camden, North London. It offers opportunities to build confidence, independence, resilience and community through time away from the city. The Trust exists to preserve and strengthen this resource for current and future generations. It safeguards the land and buildings, supports long-term sustainability, and works in partnership with the School and wardens who manage the site day to day.
We are seeking to appoint a new trustee to join a small, committed board at an important point in the Trust’s development. The Trust is entering a period of renewed strategic focus, including:
- Strengthening governance and long-term sustainability
- Supporting capital improvements to the site
- Clarifying roles and responsibilities with partners
- Preparing towards the Mill’s centenary in 2029
- Developing clearer communication and fundraising capacity
We are looking for someone who will contribute thoughtfully to this next phase — bringing both practical insight and strategic judgement.
Role of a Trustee
Trustees are collectively responsible for:
- Safeguarding the Trust’s land and buildings
- Ensuring the charity pursues its objects for public benefit
- Providing strategic direction and oversight
- Ensuring sound financial management and risk awareness
- Supporting and constructively challenging board decisions
- Acting as ambassadors for the Trust’s purpose
The Trust does not manage day-to-day operations of the site; this is undertaken by wardens under arrangements with the School. Trustees focus on governance, long-term stewardship and sustainability.
Skills and Experience of Interest
We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in one or more of the following:
- Outdoor and Residential Education – Experience in outward-bound or adventurous activity leadership
- British Mountaineering Leader or similar qualifications
- Senior experience in organisations such as the Youth Hostels Association or comparable residential providers
Time Commitment
Approximately 3–4 board meetings per year, occasional additional meetings or working group involvement, periodic visits to the Mill are encouraged.
Equality and Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and welcome expressions of interest from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experience.
Trustee Recruitment employer: Camden Learning
Joining the St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust as a trustee offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of a vital educational resource in the stunning Surrey Hills. The Trust fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, encouraging diverse perspectives while providing meaningful engagement in outdoor education for young people. With a focus on strategic development and community impact, this voluntary role not only allows for personal growth but also enables you to make a lasting difference in the lives of students from London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trustee Recruitment
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your circle or even those you admire in the charity sector. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved with local charities or community projects. This not only boosts your CV but also shows your commitment to causes like the St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the Trust’s mission and values. Show us how your skills align with their goals, especially around outdoor education and community building.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee Recruitment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for outdoor education and community engagement shine through. We want to see why you care about the Trust's mission and how you can contribute to its future.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in outdoor and residential education or governance. We’re looking for practical insights, so connect your background to the role of a trustee and how it aligns with our goals.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make your key points easy to understand. This helps us see your thought process and strategic judgement clearly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our board.
How to prepare for a job interview at Camden Learning
✨Know the Trust Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the mission and values of the St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust. Familiarise yourself with their current projects, especially the upcoming centenary in 2029. This will show your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Think about your past experiences that relate to outdoor and residential education or governance. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar organisations or initiatives. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role of a trustee.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the Trust’s strategic direction, governance challenges, or community engagement. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Show Your Passion for Community Impact
As a trustee, your role is about making a difference. Be prepared to discuss why you care about the Trust's mission and how you envision contributing to its long-term sustainability. Sharing your passion can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers.
