Founded in 909 AD, Wells Cathedral School is the oldest school in the West Country and one of the oldest in the world. With over a millennium of educational excellence, it has evolved into a leading co-educational independent school, catering to students aged 2 to 18. Renowned for its rich history, the school is nestled in the picturesque cathedral city of Wells, Somerset, UK, providing a unique and inspiring environment where academic, artistic, and musical talents flourish.

At Wells Cathedral School, the pursuit of excellence is at the core of its educational philosophy, as it has recently been recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, who rated the school ‘excellent’ (the highest possibly rating) in all areas (more information here). With a strong emphasis on individualized learning, students receive a world-class education that balances tradition with innovation. The school's commitment to fostering well-rounded development is evident through its extensive curriculum, where academic achievement is complemented by a vibrant music program and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school's exceptional teaching staff, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, create an environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and achieve their full potential.

A true highlight of Wells Cathedral School is its unparalleled emphasis on music and the arts. The School's Music Specialist programme started in the 1970s and to date, is the only one of the four English Specialist Music Schools supported by the DfE to operate within the context of an all-round school. Currently, there are a total of 80 Music Specialist students part-funded by the government, in addition to other school supported and self-funded musicians. Click here to view some of the school’s outstanding musical performances. In 2011, Wells built on its experience offering specialist music by launching a specialist mathematics scheme for gifted young mathematicians. This distinctive combination of academic excellence, rich history, and a deep commitment to nurturing musical and artistic abilities sets Wells Cathedral School apart as a truly exceptional institution, preparing students not only for academic success but also in all areas of learning including sport, drama, music and community service. 

Governors at Wells Cathedral School play a crucial role in marking the strategic direction and overall governance of the institution. Key duties of a Governor include setting and reviewing school policies, providing input and guidance on strategic planning and development, and maintaining the school's reputation and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

This appointee will also act as Chair of the Finance Committee, which meets four times a year. Alongside the standard duties of a Governor, they will use their strong financial acumen to provide confidence to other Governors around all matters relating to finance. This includes reviewing and analysing financial reports, budgets, and financial policies, ensuring prudent financial management and compliance with relevant regulations. Drawing on financial expertise, the governor contributes to informed decision-making, safeguarding the school's financial sustainability while aligning financial practices with the institution's educational mission and goals.

Wells Cathedral School is looking to appoint a financially qualified Governor who will also become Chair of the Finance Committee. They will apply their professional experience to ensure financial confidence and enable the School to reach its ambitious goals.

The ideal candidate should be financially qualified, and may have a background as an audit and risk partner at a top-tier consulting firm, or may have held a strategic senior finance function role at a commercial organisation. As the School has a strong finance governing body, this Governor will act as their critical sounding board, providing high-level oversight and challenge. In addition to their financial expertise, the successful candidate will have a sensitivity to the differences between charity and commercial environments. They will understand the importance of balancing the needs of the School's stakeholders while ensuring that the school remains financially sustainable.

Moreover, candidates should demonstrate an ability to lead and make key strategic decisions, as well as manage the facilitation of debate individually and collectively with other Governors and stakeholders. Above all, they will have a passion for education and be aligned to the values and ethos of Wells Cathedral School. 

The Board will welcome applications from candidates for whom this may be a first-time Board role.

If you have any connections to the School, please mention this in your application. 

For further information about the Board of Governors, please click here.

This is a voluntary role, although reasonable domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed. There are three full Board meetings per year and an away-day. This role will see the appointed candidate also chairs four meetings of the Finance and Audit Committee.

Governors are appointed for a three-year term which can be renewed with mutual consent.

The School is based in Wells, Somerset and meetings will take place both at the school and virtually. Candidates can be based from the UK as a whole.

Wells Cathedral School is keen to ensure its governing body reflects its schools' communities. The Board welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or disability. As those from an ethnic minority background are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from those individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.