Trustee

NACE is the UK’s leading charity that supports and champions the education of more able learners. With over 40 years of experience, NACE works with a diverse network of member schools, leaders in education and practitioners to increase challenge for all learners. We believe that that all young people, including the more able, are entitled to have the opportunity to develop their abilities without limits – no matter what barriers to learning they may face and no matter what school they attend.  

To support us in developing our strategic objectives and advancing our plans for the future, we are seeking new Trustees to join NACE’s Board with a passion for public service and sufficient time at their disposal to help us positively impact the lives of young people. Whilst an interest in or knowledge of education is desirable, it is not a pre-requisite. The role includes holding the executive leaders of NACE to account, plus agreeing and overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation whilst ensuring that resources are deployed to achieve maximum effectiveness.

The general responsibilities of trustees:

• Ensure that the Association complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Ensure that the Association pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.

• Ensure the Association applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.

• Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the Association, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Safeguard the good name and values of the Association.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the Association.

• Seek to ensure the financial stability of the Association.

In addition to these statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve:

Scrutinising board papers; Leading discussions; Focusing on key issues; Providing guidance on new initiatives; Other issues in which the Trustee has specialist expertise.

Terms of appointment

The initial term is for a period of three years.

The maximum term of office for a Trustee should be nine years, with two cycles of three years and then the option of a further one, two or three years. 

The Trustees meet four times each year as a Board. Three of these meetings are now held online, in September, November and March. The final meeting of the academic year is held in-person in June.

If you are interested in applying to join the NACE board, please send us your CV and an expression of interest by Friday 9th May. Interviews will take place on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th May.

The interview process will involve current Board members so you will have the opportunity to meet some of the people with whom you could be working in the future.

Trusteeship is a voluntary, unpaid role, but if you possess the energy and skills to make a real contribution to enhancing the educational achievement of young people, you will find the work extremely rewarding.

If you want to make a difference and you share the ambitions and aspirations of the current NACE Board, please apply to become a Trustee. You will be warmly welcomed.