Become a Trustee – Newfriars Governance

Lead with Purpose. Empower Young Lives.

Newfriars College is a specialist post‑16 SEND charity supporting young adults aged 16–25 in Stoke‑on‑Trent. We deliver personalised learning pathways and work in close partnership with families, professionals, and the wider community to help every learner develop independence, confidence, and the skills they need for adult life.

Our focus is on long‑term advocacy, meaningful achievement, and positive outcomes beyond education — supporting young people to live their best possible lives.

Become a Trustee

We are looking for new Trustees to join our Board and help guide the future of Newfriars College.

Being a Trustee is an opportunity to use your experience and insight to make a real and lasting difference. You will help shape strategic direction, support strong governance, and champion high‑quality, inclusive education for young people with SEND.

As a Trustee, you will help:

  • Strengthen governance, financial oversight, and safeguarding
  • Support innovative and ambitious specialist education
  • Ensure every learner has a personalised and aspirational pathway into adulthood
  • Influence outcomes beyond education, including employment, independence, wellbeing, and community participation

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome people from diverse professional backgrounds. You do not need to work in education — what matters most is a commitment to our values and a desire to make a difference.

We are interested in individuals who can offer:

Strategic leadership experience from any sector (including finance, law, HR, technology, marketing, health, social care, or operations)

A commitment to inclusion, with lived or professional experience of SEND or disability welcomed but not essential.

A collaborative, reflective approach to challenge and support in equal measure
A strong commitment to safeguarding and the wellbeing of young adults
Time and engagement to attend meetings and take an active interest in the College

      The college provides the most amazing support for the students offering a wide range of classes & opportunities. The students are lucky enough to be supported by a fantastic team of staff who go above & beyond on a daily basis.

      Student Voice

      What Our Trustees Say

      “Being a Trustee at Newfriars is incredibly rewarding. You can see the impact of good governance on real lives, and the passion of staff who go above and beyond for young people every day.”

      “This is a Board where your voice matters. You are supported, challenged, and genuinely able to influence outcomes for students and their families.”

      The Trustee Role

      Trustees at Newfriars College work collectively to:

      • Ensure legal, regulatory, and safeguarding compliance
      • Set strategic direction and monitor performance
      • Oversee financial sustainability and approve budgets
      • Support the appointment and development of senior leaders
      • Monitor outcomes such as education, wellbeing, independence, and preparation for adulthood
      • Champion learner, family, and community voice
      • Engage with the College through visits and governance activity

      Why Join Newfriars?

      As a Trustee, you will:

      • Help create life‑changing opportunities for young people with SEND
      • Work alongside committed professionals across education, health, and social care
      • Contribute to a values‑driven, inclusive charity
      • Develop your own skills and experience in strategic governance
      • We particularly welcome interest from people with lived experience of disability, from under‑represented backgrounds, and from professionals keen to use their skills for positive social impact.

      Interested?

      If you share our commitment to inclusion, equity, and excellence, we would love to hear from you.

      For an informal conversation, please contact:

      Rob Millington

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