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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the strategic direction of a Trust impacting thousands of young lives.
- Company: Co-op Academies Trust, a values-led organisation with diverse academies.
- Benefits: Join a collaborative Board and make a real difference in education.
- Why this job: Play a key role in improving outcomes for young people across the North.
- Qualifications: Experience in educational leadership and commitment to high standards.
- Other info: Open to candidates from anywhere in the UK.
Do you want to help shape the strategic direction of a Trust educating thousands of young people across 38 diverse academies - from primary to SEMH settings? Co-op Academies Trust is a values-led, growing organisation with academies across four regional hubs in the North of England. Working closely with our sponsor, the Co-op, we aim to improve lives through great education, inclusion, and strong community impact.
Our Co‑operative ways of being guide everything we do:
- Be yourself, always
- Show you care
- Do what matters most
- Succeed together
The opportunity
We are seeking a Trustee who can offer strategic insight, independent challenge, and a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people. You’ll join a high‑support, high‑challenge Board that works closely with the executive team to drive excellence across all 38 academies.
What you’ll do:
- Shape, approve and monitor delivery of Trust-wide strategic priorities.
- Hold the executive to account for educational and organisational outcomes.
- Ensure strong financial stewardship and long-term sustainability.
- Provide constructive challenge and support to the CEO and senior team.
- Oversee governance, risk, assurance and regulatory compliance.
- Champion our Co‑operative values across culture, decisions and practice.
Who we’re looking for:
We’re particularly interested in someone with substantial experience improving teaching and learning across a large, complex MAT. You may bring experience such as:
- Current or former MAT CEO or senior executive with system-wide responsibility.
- Recognised system leader with a track record of school improvement across multiple settings.
- Senior leader in education policy, bringing insight into national frameworks and reform.
- Leader in SEND and inclusion, with experience improving provision and outcomes at scale.
You’ll bring sound judgement, strategic thinking, and a commitment to high standards, equity, and strong governance. And while our schools are based in the North, we’re very happy to consider candidates from anywhere in the UK.
Why join us?
As a Trustee, you’ll play a meaningful role in shaping the life chances of thousands of young people across the North. Working with a values-driven Trust and a Board that is collaborative, ambitious, and focused on making a difference.
Trustee - Co-op Academies Trust employer: Peridot Partners
Contact Detail:
Peridot Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trustee - Co-op Academies Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to Co-op Academies Trust. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for improving outcomes for young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with decision-makers, highlight your experience in improving teaching and learning. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for a deep dive! If you land an interview, expect to discuss strategic insights and governance. Brush up on current educational policies and be ready to share your thoughts on how they impact the Trust's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our values-led community at Co-op Academies Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee - Co-op Academies Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see who you are and what you can bring to the table, so don’t hold back on sharing your passion for education and community impact.
Show Your Commitment: Make sure to highlight your dedication to improving outcomes for young people. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate how you've made a difference in educational settings, especially in complex environments.
Align with Our Values: Familiarise yourself with our Co-operative values and weave them into your application. Show us how you embody these principles in your work and how they guide your decision-making process.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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 Peridot Partners
✨Know the Co-op Values
Familiarise yourself with the Co-op's values and how they align with the Trust's mission. Be ready to discuss how you embody these values in your professional life, as this will show your commitment to their ethos.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Insight
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully shaped strategic priorities or improved educational outcomes. Highlight your ability to provide independent challenge while supporting leadership, as this is crucial for a Trustee role.
✨Understand Governance and Compliance
Brush up on governance frameworks and regulatory compliance relevant to Multi-Academy Trusts. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your readiness to oversee governance and risk management effectively.
✨Showcase Your Commitment to Inclusion
If you have experience in SEND or improving educational provision for diverse learners, make sure to highlight this. Discuss specific initiatives you've led or contributed to that improved outcomes for all students, showcasing your dedication to equity.