The role played by support staff is absolutely critical to the ongoing success of any good school – and this is certainly the case at OHS. As such, we recognise and value the fundamental importance of our support staff – whether that’s our maintenance team, catering staff or various admin teams. Wherever you work, therefore, and whatever your specialism, you can rely on being valued, supported and rewarded.
With fantastic benefits, a challenging and stimulating workplace and the opportunity to make a difference in girls’ lives, OHS is a truly wonderful place to work.
Chair of the Local School Governing Board
Contract term: Voluntary
Hours: Part time
Salary: None
Are you interested in school leadership and/or the education of young people?
Are you local to Oxford and do you offer board experience?
If you are looking to give something back to the local community in Oxford and develop your professional skills in strategic planning and expand your network, this is a great opportunity to join Oxford High School as the Chair of the Local School Governing Board.
The Role
Being a School Governing Board Chair at a Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) school is a rewarding experience, providing an opportunity to be a part of the UK’s leading family of independent girls’ schools. Our Governors are an important feature of our success, acting as a local level of governance and being valued ambassadors for our school and the GDST within the local community.
The Chair leads the School Governing Board in providing constructive feedback to the Head and their team regarding the strategic development and performance of the school.
You will also assist in ensuring the School Governing Board is comprised of individuals who can contribute to the delivery of the key functions and the performance of the school. In order to continually enhance the functioning of the School Governing Board, you will oversee an annual review of the School Governing Board with the support of the GDST Trust Office.
Your relationship with the Head is a key element of this role, as you will act as a ‘critical friend’ providing an appropriate balance of challenge and support to the Head, including assisting with school initiatives such as fundraising events.
Along with the School Governing Board, you will act as ambassadors for the school and the School Governing Board both at school events and in the wider local community.
The Governors meetings are held once per term (3 times per year) in addition to which one day a month will be required.
The role is not remunerated.
Previous experience of working in a school is not essential.
Applicants from numerous fields with a passion for girls’ education are warmly invited to apply.
About Oxford High School:
Since its foundation almost 150 years ago in the heart of Oxford’s historic city centre, Oxford High School has been innovative and pioneering in its approach to girls’ education.
Oxford High School is the only all through girls’ school based in Oxford with girls aged from 4 to 19. It is about to celebrate its 150th year in 2026 of educating and inspiring young women to take on the world, boldly, fearlessly and with compassion.
About the Girls’ Day School Trust
The Girls’ Day School Trust is a family of independent schools across England and Wales. Our schools deliver innovative learning for girls aged three to eighteen. From nursery, primary and prep school, throughout secondary school and Sixth Form, they learn in an environment where every girl thrives.
For more information or for an informal discussion about the role please contact governance@wes.gdst.net
Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 20th January 2025.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. An early application is therefore strongly advised.
The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.
We are committed to the safeguarding of children and child protection screening will apply to this post.