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- Tasks: Shape the future of education and support young women in their learning journey.
- Company: Join Oxford High School, part of the prestigious Girls’ Day School Trust.
- Benefits: Gain valuable governance experience and expand your professional network.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community and empower the next generation of female leaders.
- Qualifications: Passion for education and commitment to supporting young women.
- Other info: Meet once a term and dedicate one day a month to school events.
Are you local to Oxford and interested in school leadership and/or the education of young people generally and young women in particular? Oxford High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) – the UK’s leading network of independent girls’ schools – is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our School Governing Board as a Governor. If you are looking to give something back to the local community in Oxford, develop your professional skills in strategic planning and expand your network, this is a great opportunity to join Oxford High School as a Governor.
You will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction and success of the School, supporting the Head and Senior Leadership Team, and championing the GDST’s mission to help every girl learn without limits.
The Role
Being a Governor at a Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) school is a rewarding experience, providing an opportunity to be a part of the UK’s leading family of independent girls’ schools. Our Governors are an important feature of our success, acting as a local level of governance and make a vital contribution to the following core functions:
- Strategic Development: Providing constructive feedback on the school’s performance and strategic priorities, balancing a local perspective with the GDST’s wider vision.
- Ambassadorship: Acting as a visible advocate for Oxford High School and the GDST within the local community, helping to strengthen partnerships and raise the school’s profile.
- Support and Challenge: Serving as a “critical friend” to the Head and Senior Leadership Team, offering both support and constructive challenge, and taking an active interest in the life of the school by attending events and initiatives.
The Governors’ meetings are held once per term (3 times per year) in addition to which one day a month will be required. The role is not remunerated. Previous experience of working in a school is not essential and Governors from all professional backgrounds are welcome. In particular, the school is keen to recruit Governors with an interest in junior school education, Early Years, philanthropy and safeguarding.
About Oxford High School: Oxford High School is the only all through girls’ school based in Oxford with girls aged from 4 to 19. This year Oxford High is celebrating its 150th year of educating and inspiring young women to take on the world, boldly, fearlessly and with compassion.
About the Girls’ Day School Trust: The Girls’ Day School Trust is a family of independent schools across England and Wales. Our schools deliver innovative learning for girls aged three to eighteen. From nursery, primary and prep school, throughout secondary school and Sixth Form, they learn in an environment where every girl thrives.
Who We’re Looking For? We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds who can bring fresh perspectives, skills, and enthusiasm to the Board. Successful candidates will demonstrate many of the following qualities:
- A deep commitment to the values and aspirations of Oxford High School and the GDST
- Understanding of good governance, accountability, and shared decision-making
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills
- Sound judgement, integrity, and a diplomatic approach
- The ability to analyse information and data to support effective decision-making
- A commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
- Willingness to dedicate time to meetings, school events, training, and collaboration with the Chair and fellow Governors
Why Join Us? Becoming a Governor at Oxford High School GDST offers the chance to make a tangible difference in a thriving educational community. You will work alongside experienced professionals, support the next generation of female leaders, and develop your own skills in governance and strategic leadership.
Interested? If you are passionate about education and would like to contribute your expertise and enthusiasm to one of the UK’s most respected independent schools, we would love to hear from you. For more information or for an informal discussion about the role please contact head@oxf.gdst.net or governance@wes.gdst.net.
Closing date: 23:59 on Thursday 26th March 2026. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. An early application is therefore strongly advised.
The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. Oxford High School is committed to Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including online checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Governor on the Local School Governing Board in Oxford employer: Oxford High School
Contact Detail:
Oxford High School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Governor on the Local School Governing Board in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Before you apply, take some time to research Oxford High School and the GDST. Understanding their mission and what they stand for will help you connect your passion for education with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Governors, attend local events, and engage with the community. Building relationships can give you insights into the role and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your commitment! When you get the chance to chat with the Head or other Governors, express your enthusiasm for supporting young women in education. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your dedication to the cause.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Oxford High School. Don’t wait until the last minute – get your application in early!
We think you need these skills to ace Governor on the Local School Governing Board in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for education and the empowerment of young women shine through in your application. We want to see why you care about making a difference in the local community and how you align with our values at Oxford High School.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your written application. We’re looking for genuine individuals who can bring fresh perspectives to the Governing Board, so be yourself and share your unique experiences.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to showcase any skills or experiences that relate to governance, strategic planning, or community involvement. Even if you haven’t worked in a school before, we value diverse backgrounds and the different insights they can bring.
Apply Early: We recommend getting your application in as soon as possible! The closing date is 23:59 on Thursday 26th March 2026, but we might close early if we get enough applications. So, don’t wait – head over to our website and apply today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford High School
✨Know Your School
Before the interview, take some time to research Oxford High School and the Girls’ Day School Trust. Familiarise yourself with their values, mission, and recent achievements. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Show Your Commitment
Be prepared to discuss why you are passionate about education and how you can contribute to the school’s mission. Highlight any relevant experiences or skills that demonstrate your dedication to supporting young women and the local community.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the role of a Governor, the challenges the school faces, and how you can make a difference. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in being part of the team.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
As a Governor, you'll be working closely with the Head and Senior Leadership Team. Share examples from your past where you've successfully collaborated with others, highlighting your ability to support and challenge constructively while maintaining strong relationships.