Founded in 1699, Sidcot School is one of the oldest co-educational independent schools in the country. It is sited in 150 acres of beautiful countryside on the edge of the Mendip Hills, just south of Bristol, allowing students to enjoy the best of both rural and city life, with a peaceful environment in which to concentrate on their studies as well as access to the cities of Bath and Bristol for educational opportunities and weekend activities.

The school prides itself on encouraging peace, simplicity, equality, truth, empathy, independent thought, personal responsibility and curiosity. Sidcot has an excellent academic record but is equally a kind, purposeful place where it educates 'the whole person' for a life of active, responsible citizenship.

Sidcot has a proud tradition of a progressive approach to education. Its approach to teaching, which it provides to children from 3-18 years old and is founded in its Quaker roots, encourages individual thought and exploration, whilst making sure all students have the support they need to grow as individuals with their full range of talents recognised and celebrated.

Sidcot is committed to preparing students for a complex world beyond the classroom, and is accredited as one of a handful of Ashoka Changemaker schools in the UK.

All Governors will be expected to:

• Determine the overall direction and development of the School through good governance and clear strategic planning
• Ensure that the School and its representatives function within the legal and regulatory framework of the sector and in line with the School’s governing document; continually striving for best practice in governance
• Uphold the fiduciary duty invested in the position, undertaking such duties in a way that adds to public confidence and trust in the School
• Understand and uphold the School’s values
• Conform to the Nolan Principles of Public Life
• Conduct themselves according to the School’s Code of Conduct for Governors

The new Governor for education will sit on the Education Group Sub-Committee which is responsible for monitoring quality of teaching and learning and keeping in touch with the senior leadership team responsible for the school's curriculum.

Sidcot School seeks to appoint a new Governor with specialised knowledge from the Education sector, gained in either Secondary or Further Education. The successful candidate will have been a senior leader from either the UK state or independent sector, and are likely to have previous experience as a Deputy Head or Head in their career.

The new Governor will understand how to guide and influence at a senior level. They will be collaborative, strategic and have the ability to challenge constructively in a supportive manner. They must be excellent communicators and should have a strong interest in the power of education and Sidcot's mission and values. 

Sidcot School welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where diverse candidates can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

This role is unremunerated and the appointment is for a three-year term which can be renewed at the discretion of the Board. Governors' time commitment includes six Board meetings per year and two / three Education Sub-Committee meetings. The Education Committee meetings may be held virtually if needed, but Sidcot School aims to have all Board meetings in person. Reasonable domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed.