At a Glance
- Tasks: Attend council meetings, champion safeguarding, and monitor pupil attainment.
- Company: Wicklea Academy is a junior school in Brislington, Bristol, focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Full training and ongoing support provided for volunteers.
- Other info: Position requires DBS checks and references.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and advocate for disadvantaged pupils.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a commitment to improving outcomes for children required.
Chair of Academy Council
Hours: Approx. 1‑2 hours per week across the school year
Provisional Start Date: ASAP
We are looking for an Academy Councillor at Wicklea Academy to support strategic leadership and governance. The role is a rewarding volunteer position that enables you to shape the future of education and ensure every child has access to a high‑quality, inclusive learning experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Attend Council Meetings regularly (approximately 5 per year, around 2 hours each).
- Champion Safeguarding & Wellbeing: Ensure safeguarding, health and safety policies are effective and that statutory training requirements are met.
- Monitor Risk & Improvement: Review risk registers, academy improvement plans, and responses to inspections.
- Hold Leaders to Account: Oversee pupil attainment, attendance, behaviour, and curriculum effectiveness.
- Policy & Compliance: Review, approve and monitor local policies and statutory responsibilities.
- Panel Participation: Take part in panels for exclusions, complaints, and key decision‑making processes.
- Financial Oversight: Review financial plans and monitor the effective use of resources.
- Recruitment & Appraisal: Support senior leadership recruitment and contribute to the Principal’s appraisal process where appropriate.
- Champion Inclusion: Advocate for disadvantaged pupils and promote equity and inclusion.
- Act as an Ambassador: Represent Wicklea Academy positively within the local community.
You may also choose to take on a link role (such as safeguarding, SEND, or disadvantaged pupils), providing focused oversight in key priority areas.
Qualifications and Skills
- Strong communication skills and a willingness to ask questions and offer constructive challenge.
- The ability to build relationships and work collaboratively.
- An interest in education and a commitment to improving outcomes for children.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
- The time and motivation to attend meetings and engage with academy life.
- Previous governance experience is not required – full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Safeguarding & Inclusion
We take safeguarding seriously. All volunteers must complete an application form, provide references, and undergo checks, including a DBS.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and proudly serve a diverse student population and our communities. We strongly believe that representation matters and encourage applications from underrepresented and global majority groups, including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion.
About Wicklea Academy
Wicklea Academy is a junior school located in Brislington, Bristol where children are at the centre of everything we do. We offer our pupils an education that supports and challenges every child to reach their full potential.
About Cabot Learning Federation (CLF)
CLF is a diverse and inclusive community of 36 academies across five cluster regions in the South West, committed to excellence and making a positive impact. Our people bring unique perspectives, and we’re all driven by a shared moral purpose and a passion for improving lives.
Academy Councillor employer: Wicklea Academy
Wicklea Academy offers a supportive environment for children to reach their full potential. Located in Brislington, Bristol, it is part of the Cabot Learning Federation, which includes 36 academies committed to excellence. The academy values diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
