Brighter Futures Educational Trust (BFET), established in 2016, is a growing Multi Academy Trust supporting primary and secondary Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. BFET is committed to improving life opportunities for young people aged 5 to 16 through tailored support and shared expertise. Our mission is to promote an inclusive environment for all, whilst striving for excellence in every individual. We value each school’s unique identity while fostering a strong culture of collaboration and shared expertise across the Trust. We are committed to inclusion, equality and high expectations for every child, ensuring all pupils and staff feel valued and supported to thrive. The wellbeing and success of our students is at the heart of everything we do, and we work closely with our communities to ensure our decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of those we serve. We are currently seeking to welcome new Local Governors to join our governing body and play a meaningful role in supporting the ongoing development of Larwood school as part of Brighter Futures Educational Trust. This role is built on partnership. Local Governors work alongside the Headteacher and staff team, offering encouragement, thoughtful challenge and strategic oversight so that leaders and staff are well supported to do their best work for young people. Governors operate within a clear scheme of delegation, with a strong focus on safeguarding, culture, wellbeing, behaviour, attendance and the quality of education, rather than day-to-day operational matters. The Chair of Governors will provide leadership to the governing board, working closely with the Headteacher, Trust leaders and fellow governors to ensure effective governance, clear focus and positive working relationships. We are keen to build a governing body that brings together a wide range of skills, perspectives and lived experience, reflecting both the complexity of a secondary SEMH setting and the community the school serves. We would particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience or insight in: Primary education and school improvement Safeguarding, child protection or experience working with vulnerable young people (including policing, youth justice or multi-agency safeguarding) SEND, SEMH, trauma-informed practice or alternative provision Health and Safety Careers education, vocational pathways, employment or employer engagement Community leadership or business management You do not need previous governance experience to become a local governor. The time commitment is designed to be manageable and purposeful. It typically involves attending a number of meetings across the year, staying connected with school developments, occasional visits and access to training and development. Governors and the Chair are well supported by the Trust and the school leadership team. Being part of governance at Larwood is an opportunity to support the Headteacher and staff in a demanding but deeply important area of education, and to help ensure that young people are given consistency, care and clear pathways towards adulthood. If this sounds like something you would like to explore, we would very much welcome your interest. This is a voluntary role, but one where your contribution will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of children and young people across our schools. Reasonable expenses may be claimed in line with Trust policy. How to Apply Please submit your application by 27th February. If you would like an informal conversation with our Executive Head before applying, or would like to discuss other ways of getting involved, please contact: Francesca.lewis@larwood.sch.uk For more information about the Trust, please visit: https://bfetrust.org.uk/