Why Volunteer with Exceed?
Use Your Skills for Good
Bring your life or work experience into a space where it truly matters – supporting children to succeed.
Be Heard. Be Valued.
Work alongside like-minded people in a culture of respect, challenge and collaboration.
Training and Support from Day One
We provide the guidance and development you need to thrive – whether you're new to governance or experienced.
Who we are
Exceed Academies Trust is a highly inclusive, values-driven trust with 14 academies in Bradford – including primary, secondary, special schools and alternative provision. We are proud of our strong leadership, collaborative culture and a focus on equality, learning, and life chances for every pupil.
What Does a Governor or Trustee Do?
Governors and Trustees at Exceed:
✅ Hold leaders to account for performance
✅ Monitor progress and pupil experience
✅ Safeguard vision, values and resources
✅ Bring community insight into decision-making
What do we need from you?
We want your skills, strategic thinking and willingness to challenge and push us harder. We believe in effective and independent governance at Trust and local academy level.
We are keen to add interested people to our governance community on one of our Local Advisory Boards (school governing body) or Trust Board.
We are looking for skills/expertise in finance, strategy, law, HR, data analysis, risk management, health and safety, and marketing. And we have scope for new governors in our academies.
Experience of the education sector would be a bonus but is certainly not essential.
What time commitment do we ask of you?
Local Governors - 4-5 meetings per year – meetings take place at the school and are up to 2 hours in length, with timing dependent on the board - none start later than 4:00pm but some meet earlier in the day.
We encourage governors to visit the school (during school hours) a few times per year to learn about the school and undertake some governor monitoring – it could just be for an hour; however, we recognise that it is a voluntary role and that this may not always be possible. Governors are welcome to attend other events such as assemblies, seasonal activities, etc.
Trustees - at least 5 meetings per year. Hybrid meetings can be attended at Trust HQ or virtually; they are up to 2 hours in length and start at 4:00pm. You will also be asked to support on a committee, meeting 3 times per year, up to 1.5 hours in length and starting at 2:00pm.
What will you get out of it?
Being a governor or trustee offers a rare opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people — helping shape the direction of a school or the trust and ensuring every pupil gets the best possible start in life.
But it's not just about giving back. You’ll also:
- Strengthen your strategic leadership skills by working at board level on complex and meaningful issues.
- Gain insight into a new sector, applying your expertise in education and governance contexts.
- Build confidence and influence through decision-making, questioning, and constructive challenge.
- Collaborate with a diverse and committed team, growing your ability to lead and work effectively with others.
- Expand your professional network, engaging with other leaders from education, business, and the wider community.
It's a rewarding way to develop personally and professionally — while knowing your time and skills are helping to improve outcomes for children.
How We’ll Support You
- 📘 Induction materials and support
- 🎓 Free access to National Governance Association (NGA)
- 🤝 Mentoring from experienced governors
- 🧾 Regular training & briefings
- 📥 Governance handbook, templates & updates
- ☎️ Dedicated Governance Support
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We’re looking for people who care about education, equity, and community. Whether you're experienced or brand new, we'd love to hear from you.
Express your interest now by completing the form using the button below. If you would like any other information, you can contact us at info@exceedacademiestrust.co.uk