Academy Committee Representatives - Volunteer, Shoeburyness

What difference will you make?

Academy Committee Representatives strengthen our schools by supporting and challenging leaders to ensure every pupil receives a high-quality, inclusive education. Their insight and connection to the local community help shape decisions that reflect the needs of pupils and families, directly contributing to our mission of helping every child thrive.

What are we looking for?

Academy Committee Representatives should be committed, reflective, and community-minded individuals who care deeply about education and the success of local schools. They don’t need prior governance experience — training and induction are provided — but it is desirable. Representatives should bring curiosity, integrity, and a willingness to both support and challenge school leaders constructively.

Key qualities include

• Commitment to the Trust’s values and the Seven Nolan Principles of Public Life
• Ability to work collaboratively and respect confidentiality
• Strong communication skills, with at least three years’ experience in communications and, ideally, public relations
• Confidence to question and contribute to discussions
• Enthusiasm for engaging with parents, carers, and the wider community
• Experience in education, safeguarding, finance, HR, or community work is helpful but not essential

The most important quality is a genuine desire to help every pupil thrive.

What will you be doing?

As an Academy Committee Representative (ACR), you’ll act as a critical friend — offering both support and challenge to ensure high standards, inclusion, and alignment with our Trust’s values. This is not a decision‑making role; those responsibilities rest with the Trust Board. Instead, ACRs provide valuable insight, monitoring, and community perspective to help inform and strengthen the Trust’s work.

No prior governance experience is needed

Full training and induction are provided.

What’s Involved

• Attend around four meetings per year
• Make one or more school visits each term
• Focus on key areas such as curriculum, SEND, pupil premium, or community engagement
• Help shape the strategic direction of your school

Why get involved

• Make a real difference for children and families
• Develop leadership and governance experience
• Join a collaborative, values‑driven Trust
• Receive full support and training from our governance team