Whitgift School is a leading independent day and boarding school for boys aged 10 to 18 in South Croydon, with a history that stretches back to its foundation by Archbishop John Whitgift in 1596. Part of the John Whitgift Foundation, the School combines deep heritage with a clear contemporary sense of purpose, centred on helping young people grow in confidence, character and capability.
Governors provide strategic oversight of Whitgift School through the Whitgift School Committee, to which the John Whitgift Foundation delegates oversight of the School’s strategic direction and its educational offering and success. Working collectively, Governors help ensure that the School remains true to its founding purpose and values while continuing to evolve with clarity, confidence and ambition.
The role of Governors includes:
- Ensuring clarity of vision, values and strategic direction in support of the School’s long-term development
- Overseeing the quality and effectiveness of the School’s educational provision and pupil experience
- Supporting strong governance, accountability and sound decision-making across the School
- Monitoring financial sustainability and stewardship of resources, including oversight of major financial and estate matters
- Ensuring that appropriate arrangements are in place for risk management, safeguarding, welfare and regulatory compliance
- Overseeing the School’s approach to campus development, facilities and the long-term suitability of its environment for learning and community life
- Contributing to oversight of the School’s relationships, reputation and external partnerships
- Acting as ambassadors for the School’s mission, values and wider contribution to its community
Please note that Governors of Whitgift School are not Trustees of the John Whitgift Foundation.
Whitgift School is seeking up to three Governors who bring senior strategic experience in one or more of the following areas: finance, construction / estates or international expansion.
Finance: The Board is seeking a new Governor with strong strategic financial oversight experience. Candidates may have gained this experience in a range of settings, including banking, financial services or broader commercial leadership roles, and do not need to be qualified accountants. The successful candidate will bring sound commercial judgement, the ability to provide constructive challenge and support, and confidence contributing to discussions around financial sustainability, risk and long-term planning.
Estates / Construction: The Board is also seeking a Governor with estates, construction or property development expertise who will provide strategic oversight and constructive challenge on estates planning, delivery and future expansion opportunities across the School. Candidates may have gained their experience as a chartered surveyor, architect, property developer or through another senior leadership role within the built environment sector. They will bring commercial acumen, an understanding of large-scale capital projects, and the ability to support long-term estate strategy and infrastructure planning.
International Expansion: The Board is keen to appoint a Governor with experience of international growth and market expansion. While experience in the education sector would be beneficial, candidates from other sectors are also very much encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will bring insight into establishing international partnerships, campuses or branch / team operations, and will support the organisation as it explores global opportunities. They will have a track record of successfully establishing and growing operations in international markets.
In addition, candidates will bring:
- The ability to contribute strategically, exercise sound judgement and work effectively as part of a collective governing body
- A strong understanding of good governance, accountability and oversight
- A commitment to education and to supporting the development of young people
- An appreciation of safeguarding, wellbeing and the responsibilities of governance in a school setting
- The credibility, independence of mind and interpersonal skills to build constructive relationships while maintaining appropriate oversight
- A clear alignment with the School’s values and ethos
