School Governor (Finance)

Business & Human Rights Resource Centre; Ottershaw; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious girls' school in the UK is seeking a member for its Governing Body with expertise in finance and accountancy. The role requires attendance at several meetings throughout the year and involves supporting the Head and Leadership Team in strategic decisions. This is a rewarding, pro-bono opportunity aimed at individuals passionate about education. Candidates must be willing to engage in mandatory training and contribute positively to the school community, enhancing its governance and direction.

Qualifications

• Professional experience in finance and accountancy.
• Commitment to attend Governor Board meetings and additional training.
• Passion for education and ability to commit time.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategy and direction with the Head and Senior Leadership Team.
• Ensure effective governance within legal frameworks.
• Attend Board and subcommittee meetings throughout the year.

Job description

Sir William Perkins’s School is an academically selective school for girls aged 11 to 18 based in Chertsey, Surrey, where student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do and our overarching belief is that happiness at school is central to academic success.

As we celebrated our 300th anniversary year in 2025, this is an exciting time of strategic development at SWPS. Having taken the decision to admit boys from 2026, subject to regulatory approval, the school is embarking on a move towards full coeducation.

We are now looking for an additional member of the Governing Body with professional experience in finance and accountancy to enhance our current skills set and bring a new area of expertise to the Board.

The role

As a School Governor with financial expertise you will:

• Work with the Head and Senior Leadership Team to develop the strategy and direction of the School.
• Be a key member of the Finance and Investment Associating Committee, helping to ensure sound financial management and investment.
• Ensure that Governance of the School is effective, appropriate, and within the legal and regulatory framework of the independent education sector.
• Provide support to the Head and Leadership Team while being prepared to challenge and question their strategic decisions.

Governors are expected to attend around three Governor Board meetings per year and, three Finance & Investment subcommittee meetings. These are generally held at the school, but on occasion via Teams. Governors should read thoroughly all supporting documentation and be familiar with the School’s.customer ethos and policies. Mandatory training in areas such as Safeguarding and Compliance is required on joining the Board and must be kept updated throughout a Governor’s tenure. Occasional attendance at events such as open mornings and awards presentations is required in order to establish familiarity with the School.

This is a highly rewarding, pro-bono opportunity to contribute to the success of a thriving School. The role would suit people who are passionate about education and have sufficient time to commit to the role.

Interested parties should send a CV and covering letter to

Adrian Durand-Deslongrais, Clerk to Governors

Sir William Perkins’s School

[e-mail]

We are committed to ensuring that our Governing Body reflects the diversity of our student community and therefore welcome applications from individuals who are currently under-represented on the Board.

Sir William Perkins’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.