Chair of Trustees

Location: St Tudy, Cornwall

Position: Voluntary (unpaid)

Time Commitment: Approximately 10-12 hours per month, including one monthly evening meeting

About Us

St Tudy Pre-school is a registered charity and committee-led early years setting, providing high-quality care and education for children aged 12 months to 4 years in the heart of rural Cornwall. We are deeply committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive. Our dedicated team follows the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, emphasizing learning through play and outdoor exploration. We are rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (September 2023). As a committee-led pre-school, we rely on the expertise and dedication of our trustees to ensure our continued success and sustainability.

Overview

The Chair of Trustees holds a pivotal leadership role within our organisation, serving as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies including Ofsted and the Charity Commission. The successful candidate will provide strategic guidance and governance oversight while working collaboratively with the pre-school manager, staff team, and fellow trustees to uphold our mission of delivering exceptional early years education.

Role and Responsibilities

Governance & Leadership

  • Chair trustee meetings (10 per year) and the Annual General Meeting, ensuring effective decision-making processes
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Ofsted inspections and maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements
  • Ensure all statutory filings with the Charity Commission are completed accurately and on time
  • Lead the board in developing and implementing the pre-school’s strategic plan
  • Oversee risk management processes and ensure appropriate policies and procedures are in place
  • Support the recruitment and induction of new trustees

Financial Oversight

  • Work with the Treasurer to monitor financial performance against budget
  • Ensure robust financial controls are maintained
  • Support fundraising initiatives and explore sustainability strategies
  • Oversee the annual audit/independent examination process
  • Approve annual budgets and financial statements before submission to the Charity Commission

Operational Support

  • Maintain regular communication with the Pre-school Manager
  • Provide guidance on HR matters including staff recruitment, retention, and development
  • Support resolution of any operational challenges
  • Ensure compliance with employment legislation and best practices
  • Act as a signatory on the pre-school’s bank account

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Represent the pre-school at community events and with external partners
  • Foster positive relationships with parents, staff, and the wider community
  • Develop connections with potential funders and supporters
  • Act as an ambassador for the pre-school’s values and vision

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Previous experience in a leadership, management, or governance role
  • Understanding of charity governance and the responsibilities of trustees
  • Knowledge of financial management and budgeting
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and diplomacy skills
  • Ability to think strategically and plan for long-term sustainability
  • Basic understanding of early years education and/or the regulatory framework (though support and induction will be given in this area)

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

  • Previous experience as a trustee or governor within an educational setting
  • Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework
  • Experience with Ofsted inspections or Charity Commission requirements
  • Background in business management, finance, law, or education
  • Connection to the local community

Person Specification

We’re seeking someone who:

  • Is passionate about high-quality early childhood education
  • Demonstrates integrity, objectivity, and accountability in their approach
  • Can build consensus while making difficult decisions when necessary
  • Is organised and can manage competing priorities
  • Has the confidence to challenge constructively
  • Is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity
  • Possesses excellent listening skills and emotional intelligence

 

Time Commitment

  • Monthly committee meetings (approximately 2 hours)
  • Regular meetings with the Pre-school Manager (1-2 hours monthly)
  • Preparation time for meetings and review of documents
  • Attendance at pre-school events (3-5 per year)
  • Availability during Ofsted inspections (which may occur with minimal notice)

 

The successful candidate will receive:

  • A comprehensive induction to the pre-school and its operations
  • Access to relevant training opportunities through Early Years Alliance
  • Support from the outgoing Chair during a handover period, who plans to remain as a Trustee for the next 2 years
  • Regular updates on early years policy and regulatory changes

 

How to Apply

If you are enthusiastic about contributing your expertise to support young children’s education and have the skills and experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to committee@st-tudy-preschool.org.uk.

St Tudy Pre-school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this position.

Equal Opportunities Statement
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. Decisions will be made solely based on merit and suitability for the role.

 

© 2025 St Tudy Pre-school