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- Tasks: Join our Local Committee to help shape the future of schools in Surrey and Hampshire.
- Company: The Good Shepherd Trust is a multi-academy trust focused on high-quality education with a Christian ethos.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive free training, and make a real impact in your community.
- Other info: Positions available for parents, staff, and community members; flexible part-time commitment.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to improving education and supporting children's welfare.
- Qualifications: No specific prior knowledge needed; just bring your passion and perspective!
Local Committee Members at schools within the Trust in Surrey and Hampshire
About The Good Shepherd Trust
The Good Shepherd Trust (GST), founded in 2012 by the Diocese of Guildford, is a Church of England multi-academy trust committed to delivering high-quality education within a supportive Christian ethos. Since its inception, the Trust has expanded to include 24 schools across Surrey and Hampshire, comprising both primary and secondary institutions. Serving a diverse range of communities in both urban and rural settings, GST is known for its strong track record in turning around underperforming church schools while also attracting good and outstanding schools. This mix enables a collaborative model of school improvement based on peer support and executive leadership development. The Trust’s central support team is based in Guildford.
Role and responsibilities of Local Committee Members
Whether a parent member, a general member, or a staff member, our Local Committee members bring valuable information from a variety of perspectives to help make strategic decisions about the school as a whole. The Local Committee is a committee of the trust board and should feel part of the wider structure we have in place for governance, to provide assurance to the trustee directors that every child in our schools is learning, achieving and flourishing in a safe environment.
The role of a LC member is largely a thinking and questioning role; they are not charged with the operational issues in managing a school day-to-day but are required to oversee its long term development in conjunction with the trust. LCs rely on a variety of experiences and perspectives. No specific prior knowledge is required and the trust seeks volunteers with a range of skills and backgrounds. Training and support are available for new and existing members and is free of charge.
In order to perform this role well, a local committee member is expected to:
- get to know the school, including by visiting the school occasionally during school hours, and gain a good understanding of the school’s strengths and weaknesses;
- attend induction training and regular relevant training and development events;
- attend meetings (LC meetings and other events) and read all the papers before the meeting;
- act in the best interest of all the pupils of the school; and
- behave in a professional manner, as set down in the Trust code of conduct including acting in strict confidence and adhering to the Nolan Principles – leadership, selflessness, objectivity, openness, integrity, honesty and accountability.
We are working hard to become a more diverse organisation – which is key to our commitment “to be better, together”. We welcome applications from everyone committed to this ethos and would particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in the Trust as a whole. We always appoint on merit.
Location: Academies Office, Larch Avenue, Guildford, , GU1 1JY
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Contract Term: Part-Time
Closing Date: 11:59pm, 30th Jun 2025
Start Date: TBC with candidate
Positions Available: 10
Committee Members employer: The Good Shepherd Trust
Contact Detail:
The Good Shepherd Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Committee Members
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with The Good Shepherd Trust's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to high-quality education within a supportive Christian ethos will help you align your perspective and demonstrate your genuine interest during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community and schools in Surrey and Hampshire. Attend events or meetings related to education in your area to build connections and gain insights into the specific needs and strengths of the schools within the Trust.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare thoughtful questions and insights about the role of Local Committee Members. This shows your proactive approach and willingness to contribute meaningfully to the governance of the schools, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your unique experiences and perspectives that can benefit the committee. Highlight any relevant skills or backgrounds that align with the diverse needs of the Trust, as they are looking for a range of contributions.
We think you need these skills to ace Committee Members
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Local Committee Member. Familiarise yourself with the Trust's ethos and how your unique perspective can contribute to the strategic decisions made for the schools.
Tailor Your Application: When writing your application, highlight your relevant experiences and skills that align with the role. Emphasise your commitment to the welfare of children and your ability to act in the best interest of all pupils.
Showcase Your Commitment to Diversity: The Trust values diversity and is keen on becoming a more inclusive organisation. If applicable, mention any experiences or perspectives you bring that support this commitment, particularly if you belong to an under-represented group.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Good Shepherd Trust
✨Understand the Trust's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with The Good Shepherd Trust's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to high-quality education within a supportive Christian ethos will help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Show Your Commitment to Diversity
The Trust is keen on becoming a more diverse organisation. Be prepared to discuss how your background or experiences can contribute to this goal. Highlight any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
✨Prepare Questions
As a Local Committee Member, your role involves thinking and questioning. Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's strengths, weaknesses, and long-term development plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Nolan Principles
The Trust expects all members to adhere to the Nolan Principles of public life. Brush up on these principles—leadership, selflessness, objectivity, openness, integrity, honesty, and accountability—and be ready to discuss how you embody these values in your professional conduct.