Community Governor - Volunteer

Bradfields Academy, part of Fortis Trust, is seeking a committed and values-driven Community Governor to join its Local Governing Committee. About the role

Community Governors contribute to strong governance by focusing on what matters most: the experiences, outcomes, and wellbeing of young people.

• Supporting oversight of high-quality specialist provision
• Ensuring the academy continues to meet a wide range of complex needs
• Contributing to strategic priorities that improve inclusion, independence, and life outcomes

• Ensuring safeguarding is embedded across culture, systems, and decision-making
• Maintaining oversight of safeguarding practice and statutory responsibilities
• This supports the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all students

• Providing appropriate challenge and support regarding quality of education and outcomes
• Ensuring high expectations for all students
• This enables continuous improvement and strong outcomes over time

• Supporting strong relationships with parents, carers, and the wider community
• Bringing a community-informed perspective into governance discussions
• This strengthens partnership working and community confidence

Fortis Trust welcomes applications from individuals outside of education who can bring transferable professional expertise and independent thinking to governance.

Training and development will be provided.

• Leadership or management in any sector
• Community, voluntary, or public service roles
• Health, social care, or youth services
• Legal, compliance, or regulatory environments
• Business, operations, or service delivery
• Communications or stakeholder engagement
• Digital, data, or systems leadership

• A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people
• The ability to think strategically and consider long-term impact
• Confidence to offer appropriate challenge and support
• Strong communication and collaborative working skills
• Integrity, discretion, and sound judgement

• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young people and families
• Experience contributing to strategic governance within a specialist academy
• Access to high-quality training and development through Fortis Trust
• Insight into education leadership and system-wide working
• The opportunity to develop your own leadership and governance expertise
• The opportunity to be part of a friendly and supportive team of governors

Bradfields Academy and Fortis Trustare committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All governors are required to undertake appropriate safeguarding training and are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

To apply

• Contact the Clerk to the Governing Board
  Email:
  Julie Duplock

Or complete the Governor Application Form and return it to:

Mrs Sweetlove‑Smyth

Fortis Trust

C/O Bradfields Academy
Churchill Avenue
Chatham, Kent ME5 0LB