At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board of Trustees to support governance and strategic decisions for a vital charity.
- Company: IPSEA is a leading charity dedicated to ensuring children with special educational needs receive their legal education rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy training, reimbursement for expenses, and a buddy system for new trustees.
- Other info: Meetings are flexible, with options for virtual attendance and a commitment of just six meetings a year.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of families while developing your skills and gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: We're looking for diverse skills, especially in IT, education, or disabilities; all backgrounds welcome!
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Direct message the job poster from IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
Help us support families to get the right education for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
We are seeking new people to join ourBoard of Trusteesto support the good governance of our charity. It is an exciting time to join us as we work to launch our new strategy from 2026; an important timeframe as we await a Government White Paper on SEND and consider how best to adapt our services to ensure we reach those who need us most.
Who we are
Founded in 1983, IPSEA is a leading national charity focussed on supporting families to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the education they are legally entitled to. Since our formation, we have actively helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people with SEND. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.
Who are we looking for?
We wish to recruit a number of new trustees who are committed to our vision and values and who bring complementary skills to those of our current Board members.
Trustees are expected to gain an understanding of the organisation’s purpose, and to contribute their own expertise, ensuring IPSEA fulfils its objectives, and in accordance with our charitable objects and Articles of Association.
Whether you’re an experienced trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we are particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise and skills in one or more of the following areas:
- IT / Digital transformation / cyber security
- Local Authority / Education
- Disabilities
Please note: a lack of expertise in these areas does not mean that an application will not be considered.
Our Board should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.
What we can offer you
- an in-depth induction programme, training and reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
- the opportunity to be involved in making strategic decisions and developing new skills
- the opportunity to apply your knowledge and experience to an important cause
- a buddying system for new trustees as you settle into the role
The expected time commitment is six trustee meetings per year (meetings are held on weekdays in central London or at IPSEA’s office in Takeley, Essex with the option to join some meetings virtually), usually one strategic planning/training day and some other ad hoc time for occasional meetings and events.
To apply
- Read the ‘Trustee Recruitment Pack’
- Download and complete the ‘Trustee Application Form’
- Submit your completed application form via our HR system, Breathe:https://hr.breathehr.com/v/trustee-42344
If you have any questions in advance of applying, please emailhr@ipsea.org.uk.
Closing date for applications:5pmon Friday 12 September 2025
First-round interviews:Monday29 September and Monday 6 October 2025
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#J-18808-LjbffrTrustee - Volunteer in Chelmsford employer: IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
IPSEA is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. As a trustee, you will benefit from a comprehensive induction programme, ongoing training, and the chance to contribute to strategic decisions that shape the future of our charity. Our inclusive work culture values diverse perspectives, ensuring that all voices are heard as we strive to support families effectively.
Contact Details:
IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trustee - Volunteer in Chelmsford
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee - Volunteer in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice.
How to prepare for a job interview at IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
