Role specification

As a Trustee at Schoolreaders, you will play a key role, helping to shape the overall direction and vision.

 

The key duties of Trustees are to:

Work collectively with fellow Trustees and the executive team to ensure Schoolreaders remains mission-driven, financially resilient, and effective in delivering high-impact literacy support to disadvantaged children

 

Shape and challenge organisational strategy, supporting the charity’s continued national expansion and operational effectiveness, while safeguarding its reputation and resources

 

Champion the importance of evidence-based, face-to-face reading interventions while constructively interrogating the potential role of digital provision, ensuring decisions are grounded in impact and inclusivity

 

Engage as an ambassador for Schoolreaders, championing its mission and extending its reach through networks, partnerships, and lived experience

 

Support the executive team in addressing key challenges, including funding pressures, digital transformation, and safeguarding volunteer and beneficiary data

 

Model inclusive, collaborative governance and foster an environment where diverse perspectives and backgrounds are valued

 

Person specification

 

Schoolreaders is seeking to strengthen its Board with new Trustees who bring expertise across two priority areas: IT and digital marketing and education. While prior governance experience is welcome, the organisation is equally open to applications from those seeking their first non-executive appointment.

 

IT and Digital Marketing

The Board would benefit from stronger insight into organisational IT systems and efficiencies in operational processes, particularly the management of cyber security risks and the strategic adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Broader experience in overseeing IT strategy and infrastructure would also be highly valuable. If candidates also bring digital media experience — such as online recruitment, fundraising campaigns, or strengthening web presence — this would be an asset, but it is not the primary focus. This expertise could come from any sector, and candidates may have held senior leadership roles such as Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Digital Officer, or similar positions with responsibility for IT strategy, systems, or security.

 

Education

The Board welcomes applications from those with current experience as a primary school practitioner, ideally within the state sector. Insight into challenges linked to deprivation and the use of educational technology would be particularly valuable in shaping policy, practice and partnership development. Candidates may have held leadership roles such as Head of Department, Assistant Head, Deputy Head, Headteacher, Chief Executive, or Director of Education. Appointees will also join the Education Safeguarding Consultation Group (meets three times per year).

 

Above all, successful candidates will be motivated by the mission of Schoolreaders and committed to supporting children’s literacy and life chances.