Independent Governor

About CATS Global Schools

CATS Global Schools is a leading education group committed to inspiring the next generation of world shapers.

With a history dating back to 1899, our group includes 16 institutions such as independent boarding schools, an Arts school, English language schools, and summer programmes across the UK, US, Canada, and China.

Annually, we educate 18,000 students worldwide, equipping them with real-life skills for the future. We emphasize academic excellence and maintain strong links with over 40 top global universities.

We foster a positive learning environment where every student is empowered to contribute to shaping their world, supported by our dedicated and pioneering staff.

Role overview

The proprietorial body holds overall responsibility for procedures, policies, and training across CGS's UK schools (including Bournemouth Collegiate School, Bosworth Independent School, CATS Cambridge, CSVPA, Guildhouse School, St Michael's, and The Worthgate School), ensuring legal compliance. Responsibilities align with the statutory guidance 'Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE) 2024.'

While the proprietor remains accountable, KCSiE recommends appointing governor members at the board level for guidance and leadership. The Independent Governor will work alongside Head Teachers, supporting schools to meet legal and regulatory standards.

Independent Governors oversee management aspects such as strategy, policy, budgeting, and staffing. They support CGS schools in operating effectively, working with senior leaders and teachers to deliver excellent education. Attendance at governing body meetings is expected.

Currently, we seek to appoint two Independent Governors: one with expertise in commercial growth, sales, and EBITDA, and another with experience in Ofsted/ISI inspections, senior/exec school leadership, preferably with held executive roles in a group of schools. Experience with EYFS is advantageous but not essential. These roles report directly to the Chair of Governors and the CEO.

Responsibilities

As an Independent Governor, your duties include:

• Contributing to strategic oversight
• Providing challenge, insight, and expertise to ensure compliance, safety, and continuous improvement
• Supporting statutory responsibilities and decision-making processes aligned with the school's mission and values
• Monitoring and auditing practices and policies
• Advising on financial targets
• Collaborating effectively within the governing body, understanding the distinction between executive and governor roles
• Making ethical, informed decisions fostering transparency and high standards

Regarding statutory compliance (including ISSRs, NMBS, KCSiE):

• Leading internal audits for legal and policy compliance, including estates and ISI requirements
• Supporting the Chair to monitor and advise on ISI compliance and inspections
• Organizing governance audits of schools/colleges
• Gathering KPI data for meetings
• Staying updated on regulatory and inspection changes, advising schools accordingly
• Reviewing and responding to exclusion appeals
• Conducting complaint investigations as directed

Person Specification

• Minimum five years of senior/executive school leadership experience
• Deep knowledge of KCSIE and ISI requirements
• Experience conducting school audits and monitoring visits for safeguarding and compliance
• Desirable: experience as an ISI inspector

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are dedicated to fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging. Building on our core values—Pioneering, Persevering, People—we plan to host events, guest speakers, and focus groups to make CATS Global Schools an employer of choice.

And finally

We are committed to diversity and inclusion. All shortlisted candidates will need to complete a criminal declaration and undergo online checks, which may include social media screening.