At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Community Learning and Development Standards Council to enhance professional practice in Scotland.
- Company: Join a unique peer-led organisation dedicated to community learning and development.
- Benefits: Earn £285 per day, plus travel and childcare reimbursements.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education and community empowerment in Scotland.
- Qualifications: Must be a registered CLD member with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for up to 4 years with potential for significant influence.
The predicted salary is between 8550 - 11400 £ per month.
We are looking for a new chairperson for the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Standards Council. The CLD Standards Council is unique to Scotland and is the national professional body for people who work or volunteer in Community Learning and Development. It is a peer-led organisation that supports its members to develop their practice within and across the CLD disciplines of Adult Learning, Community Development and Youth Work, making a key contribution to the development of a skilled and productive workforce in Scotland as recommended by the Still report, and of high quality public services driving forward the principles set out by the Christie Commission.
As Chair, you will be required to draw on your experience and knowledge as a respected and experienced strategic manager, and be able to lead on the next phase of development of this already high performing and innovative organisation. Your role will include the strengthening of the Standards Council’s distinctive role in raising the professional practice standards in CLD as the recognised professional body for CLD practitioners and developing services for registered members. The CLD Standards Council has a pivotal role in the delivery of the Scottish Government’s strategies for education, lifelong learning and community empowerment.
Responsibilities
- Developing productive strategic, and responsive, relationships with Scottish Ministers, members, and stakeholders, ensuring that the CLD Standards Council’s policies and actions support wider CLD strategic priorities and outcomes.
- Ensuring that CLD Standards Council delivers, to a high standard, its portfolio of activities.
- Promoting positive organisational behaviours which reflect the changing world of work (fair work, diversity, equality) across CLD partners and within the CLD Standards Council.
- Promoting the highest standards of governance, propriety and conduct in CLD Standards Council business.
- Maintaining a strong collective sense of delivery, accountability and challenge in the investment of public funds.
- Leading the CLD Standards Council in making decisions, developing its capacity to do so.
- Directing corporate vision, purposing strategic outcomes and goals, and communicating these in representing CLD Standards Council to Scottish Government and stakeholders more widely.
How To Apply
You must be an existing registered CLD member. To apply, please visit our website to download the application pack. Only applications which follow the pack instructions will be accepted. You will provide an overarching statement (no more than 1,000 words) and examples that demonstrate how you meet the following criteria of Leadership, Communicating and Influencing, and Seeing the Bigger Picture. These criteria are fully detailed in the application pack which can be downloaded from the CLD website. You will also provide your CV in support of your application. All completed applications should be emailed to chair@cldstandardscouncil.org.uk by 20 February 2026 (23:59). Interviews will take place on 20 March 2026 as detailed in the application pack.
Terms of Appointment
The daily remuneration rate for this position is £285 per day (based on a maximum of 3 days per month). You will receive reimbursement for reasonable travel expenses and reasonable childcare/carer costs incurred whilst undertaking Board duties. The appointment is not pensionable. This appointment will be for up to 4 years in the first instance. This appointment will be formally effective from 1 May 2026.
Apply before: 20 February 2026 (23:59)
Chair of the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Standards Council Scotland employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Standards Council Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Get out there and connect with other professionals in the Community Learning and Development field. Attend events, join online forums, and engage with CLD practitioners on social media. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities you might not find through traditional job searches.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you’re chatting with potential employers or at networking events, share specific examples of how you've led projects or initiatives in the past. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can drive the CLD Standards Council forward.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply—engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. This shows initiative and keeps you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your passion for community learning and development.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview like a pro! Research the CLD Standards Council thoroughly and think about how your vision aligns with their goals. Practice answering common interview questions, but also be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of raising professional practice standards in CLD.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Standards Council Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Application Pack Thoroughly: Before you dive into writing, make sure to read the application pack from top to bottom. It’s got all the details you need about what we’re looking for, and following those instructions is key to making your application stand out.
Craft Your Overarching Statement Wisely: Your overarching statement is your chance to shine! Keep it under 1,000 words and make sure it clearly showcases your leadership skills, communication style, and ability to see the bigger picture. We want to know how you can contribute to our mission!
Use Real Examples: When you're addressing the criteria, don’t just tell us you have the skills—show us! Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate how you’ve successfully led teams or influenced change. This will help us see the real impact of your work.
Submit on Time and via Email: Don’t forget to send your completed application to the right email address by the deadline—20 February 2026 at 23:59. Late applications won’t be considered, so double-check everything before hitting send. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your CLD Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Standards Council's mission and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with the key challenges and opportunities facing the organisation, as well as the principles set out by the Christie Commission. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a potential chairperson, it’s crucial to highlight your leadership skills. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead strategic initiatives, manage teams, and influence stakeholders. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
During the interview, focus on clear and confident communication. Practice articulating your thoughts on how you would strengthen the Standards Council’s role and improve professional practice standards. Remember, this is not just about what you say, but how you say it—maintain eye contact and engage with your interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions for the panel. Ask about their vision for the future of the CLD Standards Council or how they measure success in their initiatives. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values and goals.