Vice Chair of Governors

Essex; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 100,000 - GBP 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Chelmsford is seeking a Vice Chair of Governors to support the Local Governing Committee. The role involves collaborating with the Chair and Headteacher to shape the school's strategic direction while ensuring high-quality education. No previous experience is essential, making it ideal for passionate individuals eager to contribute positively to governance and student outcomes. The position is part-time and unremunerated, with flexible meeting commitments.

Benefits

Comprehensive induction programme

Networking opportunities through conferences

Support from Governance Professionals

Qualifications

• No previous experience required, transferable skills welcome.
• Ability to work collaboratively with school leaders.

Responsibilities

• Act as a sounding board for the Chair.
• Support the governance and strategic direction of the school.
• Attend evening meetings and school events.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to build positive relationships

Ability to analyse information

Capacity to champion good governance

Commitment to integrity

Ability to commit time

Job description

Job Ref No. ECC4480-728S

Position Type: Administration   Pay Range: Unremunerated

Position Start Date: 01/09/2026   Contract Type: Part-time   Contract Term: Permanent

Application Close: 01/03/2026 Midnight   Date of Interviews: To be confirmed

About the role

We are looking for an inspirational, forward-thinking and motivated Vice Chair of Governors to join our supportive and collaborative Local Governing Committee (LGC) at Moulsham High School from 01/09/2026.

Moulsham High School is a high performing comprehensive school where "behaviour is calm, and the atmosphere is productive and positive, making it a nice place to be" (Ofsted 2020).

We are seeking someone who is passionate about the role that education can play in changing the lives of young people and someone who understands the difference between governance and management. The successful candidate will be supported through induction, training and will work closely with the Chair of Governors.

As Vice Chair you will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the school, working in partnership with the Chair, Headteacher, senior leaders and fellow governors. You will ensure the school remains focused on providing the highest quality education for all pupils.

The Vice Chair will:

• Act as a sounding board for the Chair
• Share tasks with the Chair when agreed, ensuring a manageable workload and increased leadership capacity of the LGC (e.g. induction of new governors)
• Be the Chair's deputy in times of absence
• Carry out all duties expected of a governor (e.g. attending school events and carrying out monitoring visits)

What we offer

• A comprehensive induction programme
• Access to National College and membership of National Governance Association (NGA)
• Friendly and supportive environment with a commitment to work-life balance and an understanding of the role of volunteers
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children, staff and the school community
• Supportive Governance Professionals and Clerking support
• Access to resources and materials to support governance
• Twice yearly conferences to keep you up to date and provide networking opportunities

We are looking for someone with

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships
• Ability to analyse information and ask strategic and challenging questions
• Capacity to champion good governance
• Commitment to integrity, fairness and best outcomes for pupils
• Ability to commit time to meetings, school visits and assist with leadership of the board

Previous experience is not essential and we welcome applications from individuals with transferable skills from other sectors.

Bridge Academy Trust may close this advert early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Work Schedule: 4 meetings per year, usually in the evening

How to Apply: To apply for the role, please complete the application form, demonstrating how your skills and experience match the criteria in the Job Description and Person Specification and return directly to Bridge Academy Trust. Application guidance notes are also available to assist you with completing your application. Informal enquiries regarding the role can be made to the school office via email to [e-mail]

Information about the School

Moulsham High School is a thriving, inclusive community that welcomes students, parents, staff and visitors from all backgrounds. Our ethos is for students of all abilities and backgrounds to feel valued so that they can reach their potential, not only as students but also as well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life in the modern world and can contribute positively to their local and wider communities.

We are a high performing comprehensive school where the quality of education is outstanding and the behaviour is calm and the atmosphere is productive and positive, making it a nice place to be (Ofsted 2020).

Moulsham High School is part of the Bridge Academy Trust: a collegiate and collaborative Trust, where each school is a place of high-quality learning, where young people ENJOY, ENRICH, ACHIEVE, ASPIRE. The core purpose is to provide high-quality continuity of every child’s journey through education from 3 to 19, with a community and school-led school improvement approach and long-term sustainable strategy.

This Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references. Bridge Academy Trust welcomes applications from those of all backgrounds, faiths and ethnic groups.

All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.

Julia Mead
Moulsham High School
Brian Close, Chelmsford
Essex, CM2 9ES Telephone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Other roles

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Vice Chair of Governors – VOLUNTEERING – Bridge Academy Trust, Chelmsford. Closing: 01/03/2026 Midnight