Clerk to the Board of Governors

Francis Holland Schools Trust

Clerk to Board

Competitive

The Francis Holland Schools Trust currently comprises three leading independent girls’ schools in two central London locations. While each school has its own vision and ethos, the Trust’s overarching commitment is to nurture pupils’ potential, develop resilience and help them become fulfilled adults who will make a positive difference in a fast-changing inter-connected world. From September 2024, Francis Holland Junior School (which is currently based at Francis Holland School, Sloane Square) will relocate to an iconic Grade II listed building in the heart of Chelsea, just off the King’s Road, and become Francis Holland Preparatory School for girls aged 4-11.

The outstanding achievements of the schools within the Trust have ensured a unique position and reputation within the British independent school sector and the continued success of Francis Holland Schools is assured through our academic results, our strong growth and international expansion.

Francis Holland Trust seeks to appoint a new Clerk to the Governors who will play a critical role in facilitating the work of the Chair and Board of Governors by providing support across a wide range of governance and administrative areas.

The Clerk will be accountable to the Board of Governors as a whole, working effectively with the Chair and with the Heads, COO and other Governors.  It is a unique and discrete role within the School’s structure, responsible for advising the Board on all constitutional, procedural and ethical matters whilst working within the current legislative framework.

The Clerk will have experience of operating at a senior level and be able to respond both proactively and reactively to a diverse range of different requirements.  The role will suit an individual who combines the aptitude and gravitas to provide a high standard of bespoke professional support to a wide range of internal stakeholders.

The successful candidate must have a keen attention to detail and be willing to attend regular training as needed.  You will be comfortable working at pace and will possess a strong work ethic, sound intellect and exceptional communication skills.  It is important to the Board that their Clerk understands the multi-faceted nature of independent schools and is motivated to ensure that the School remains relevant, inclusive and true to its values.

This is a part-time role which amounts to roughly 40% of the full time equivalent.  There are typically up to ten meetings per term, including some weekends and evenings.  The job is not evenly paced and there will be some weeks that are busier than others.  Flexibility is therefore important.