At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance for a Multi-Academy Trust and drive digital transformation.
- Company: Join Initio Learning Trust, a forward-thinking educational organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, pension scheme, health cash plan, and cycle-to-work options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong commitment to safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on school improvement and sustainability.
- Qualifications: ICSA/CGI qualification or equivalent experience in governance.
The predicted salary is between 49282 - 55459 £ per year.
Initio Learning Trust has a fantastic opportunity for a part‑time newly created Head of Governance to join their dedicated central team.
Contract: Permanent, 24 hours per week over 41 working weeks (term time, plus 2 weeks)
Full time equivalent (FTE) Salary: Grade 13, £49,282 – £55,459 per annum
Actual Salary: £29,577 – £33,262 per annum
Approx Start: October 2026
Location: You will be based at our central office in Broadstone, and on occasions may be required to travel to our multiple school sites located across Dorset and BCP.
As the Trust's senior governance lead, you will ensure we operate within an exemplary, legally compliant and high‑performing model. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to drive digital transformation, provide strategic oversight, proactive policy development and robust regulatory assurance for a mature Multi‑Academy Trust.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Governance Leadership: Provide authoritative counsel to senior leaders and trustees, refine governance infrastructure, and drive digital transformation and KPI frameworks.
- Trust Board & Committee Governance: Quality‑assure the administration of all meetings, offering real‑time procedural and legislative guidance to meet rigorous evidentiary standards.
- Compliance & Assurance: Guarantee absolute adherence to the Academy Trust Handbook and company law, maintain statutory registers and lead governance risk assessments (including Company Secretary duties).
- Team Leadership: Mentor and manage Local School Committee Clerks, elevating professional standards through training, quality assurance and regular appraisals.
- Capacity & Capability: Lead recruitment and succession planning for trustees and LSC members; design and implement a framework to enhance capability.
- Financial: Manage the central governance budget, external contracts and SLAs.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build trusted partnerships with trustees, headteachers and executive teams, fostering an environment of robust accountability and healthy challenge.
Essential Knowledge & Skills
- ICSA/CGI Chartered Governance Qualification (or working towards/equivalent experience).
- Proven governance leadership experience within education, charity or regulated sectors.
- Expertise in the Academy Trust Handbook, company law and governance frameworks.
- Exceptional communication skills with the ability to advise, influence and challenge senior stakeholders.
- Strong leadership skills and experience managing governance staff or administrative professionals.
If you are a highly motivated and experienced governance professional seeking an opportunity to facilitate transparent decision‑making that supports school improvement and long‑term sustainability, we encourage you to apply.
Closing Date: 27 August 2026
Interview Schedule: w/c 7 September 2026
Contact: Shani Davies, Director of People & Culture – email: recruitment@initiolearning.org
Equal Opportunity: Initio Learning Trust is a Disability‑Confident Committed Employer and values diversity and inclusion. Applicant shortlisting is done without reference to any personal data including your name. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Benefits:
- Flexible, equal‑opportunity workplace.
- Access to a local government or teachers pension scheme.
- Health Cash Plan.
- Cycle‑to‑Work scheme.
Safeguarding & Compliance: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
Head of Governance in Poole employer: Initio Learning Trust
Burton Bradstock CE Primary School is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for both staff and students. With a strong focus on professional development, employees have ample opportunities to grow their skills while contributing to a positive and engaging learning atmosphere. Located in a picturesque setting, the school fosters a sense of community and collaboration, making it a rewarding place to work.
