At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board to shape the future of a top independent school.
- Company: Solihull School, a prestigious co-educational institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Develop governance skills and make a lasting impact on students and staff.
- Other info: Voluntary role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and influence the educational landscape for future generations.
- Qualifications: Strong commitment to education and leadership experience preferred.
Solihull School is seeking a Chair of Governors to succeed Mr Damian Kelly, who is stepping down in July 2026, after 15 years of exceptional service, the last 4 years as Chair. It is hoped that his successor will be appointed to the Board as a Governor to allow for a period of handover before taking over as Chair, ideally from September 2026.
The Governors are seeking someone with a real commitment to the School and the education and development of its pupils. While the role is voluntary, the Chair of Governors will have the opportunity to:
- Help to shape the future of the region’s leading independent, co-educational school and strengthen its already excellent position in the region’s educational landscape
- Develop governance and leadership skills in a dynamic educational environment
- Work with the Board and Leadership Team to make a lasting impact on pupils, staff and the broader school community
Solihull School is a leading 3–18 independent co-educational day school. Founded in 1560 and originally the Free Grammar School, Solihull became independent in 1946. The School admitted only boys until 1973, when girls joined the Sixth Form. It became fully co‑educational in 2005 and, after a merger with St Martin’s School in 2020, Solihull became a through school from 3‑18. In 2026, Solihull was awarded “West Midlands Independent Secondary School of the Year” by the Sunday Times Schools Guide.
If this is an opportunity that appeals to you and you believe that you may have the required skills, experience and attributes to be a Chair of Governors, then we would be delighted to hear from you. Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics by email to arrange a confidential discussion.
Solihull School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be asked to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service for an Enhanced Disclosure. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure. RSAcademics is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
Chair of Governors – Solihull School employer: RSAcademics Ltd
Solihull School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about education to shape the future of a leading independent school. With a commitment to fostering governance and leadership skills in a supportive environment, the role of Chair of Governors allows for meaningful contributions to the development of pupils and the broader school community. Located in the heart of Solihull, the school boasts a rich history and a vibrant culture that values diversity and inclusion, making it an attractive place for dedicated individuals to make a lasting impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of Governors – Solihull School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former governors and school leaders. They can give you insider info about the role and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for education! When you get the chance to chat with the Board, share your vision for the school's future and how you can contribute to its success.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s history and achievements. This will help you demonstrate your commitment and understanding of what makes Solihull School special.
✨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 Chair of Governors – Solihull School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and commitment to Solihull School shine through. We want to see how much you care about shaping the future of our pupils and the school community.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous governance or leadership experience you have. We’re looking for someone who can bring valuable skills to the table, so don’t hold back on sharing your achievements!
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to customise your application to reflect the specific needs and values of Solihull School. We appreciate when candidates do their homework and align their vision with ours.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at RSAcademics Ltd
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research Solihull School thoroughly. Understand its history, values, and recent achievements, especially its recognition as 'West Midlands Independent Secondary School of the Year'. This will show your genuine commitment to the school and help you articulate how you can contribute to its future.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience
As a potential Chair of Governors, it's crucial to highlight your leadership skills. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams or initiatives. This will help the interviewers see how your experience aligns with the governance and leadership skills they are looking for.
✨Engage with the Board's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the current Board's goals and challenges. During the interview, engage in discussions about their vision for the school and share your thoughts on how you can help achieve those objectives. This shows that you're not just interested in the role but also invested in the school's future.
✨Show Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and practices. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to promoting the welfare of children and young people, which is a key expectation for this position.
