Governance Officer

Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people. We're looking for an organised and proactive Governance Officer to support and strengthen governance across our London academies. Working within our Governance team, you'll play a critical role in ensuring our Local Governing Bodies (LGBs) operate effectively, efficiently and in line with statutory requirements. You'll provide high-quality governance support, coordinate meetings and governor panels, support governor recruitment and development, and help strengthen the connection between our schools, communities and the Trust. This is a varied and rewarding role that combines governance administration, stakeholder engagement, compliance and volunteer development. From clerking governing body meetings to supporting governor recruitment, training and governance effectiveness, you'll help ensure our governance structures deliver meaningful impact for children and young people. You'll work closely with Chairs of Governors, Principals, governors and senior colleagues across the Trust, providing advice, guidance and practical support. You'll also play an important role in promoting good governance practice, developing effective local governing bodies and ensuring robust governance arrangements across your allocated cluster of academies. This is a part-time role (22.5 hours per week, three days per week), term-time only plus two weeks (39+2 weeks). The role offers hybrid working with travel to academies and other locations across the London region as required. Some evening work will be required to support governing body meetings and hearings.

You're a highly organised and detail-focused professional with experience supporting boards, committees or governance functions, ideally within education. You'll have excellent communication and relationship-building skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities and a strong understanding of governance processes and requirements. You'll be comfortable working independently while building effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Experience within the education sector is essential, while professional governance qualifications and experience of governor recruitment, training or governance systems such as GovernorHub would be advantageous.

Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered.

Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach - they are our greatest asset. We exist to provide the best learning opportunities every day, in every school for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, you can be sure of a role with purpose and meaning. Ormiston, where every member of staff enjoys…

• The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before - being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive
• Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children - a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve
• Being part of a team and community where you belong - receiving bespoke and holistic support from a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities
• A supportive environment to grow your career - an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits
Benefits that care for you We value your hard work and dedication, and we're committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools. When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role. You will have access to an attractive benefits package including:
• 30 days annual leave (rising to 32 days after 5 years' service)
• Generous pension and life cover
• Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service.
• Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform.
• Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Automatic pay progression.
• Flexible working arrangements.
And much more as part of a leading multi-academy trust. If you're excited by this opportunity but are considering a different way of working, such as a secondment or another flexible arrangement, we'd love to hear from you and discuss the possibilities. If you have any questions about the role please contact Sunita Yardley-Patel, Head of Governance, via email: [email protected] Please apply by the closing date stated above. Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early should a suitable candidate be found. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Ormiston Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered.