Employer: Oxford High School – GDST; Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire; Contract Type: Permanent; Hours: Part Time; Contract Length: N/A; Salary: None; Contract Term: Voluntary.
Posted 17th February 2026; Start Date: To Be Confirmed; Expires 26th March 2026 11:59 PM; Job ID: 1534208; Job Reference Gov0226.
Are you local to Oxford and interested in school leadership and/or the education of young people generally and young women in particular?
Oxford High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) – the UK’s leading network of independent girls’ schools – is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our School Governing Board as a Governor.
If you are looking to give something back to the local community in Oxford, develop your professional skills in strategic planning and expand your network, this is a great opportunity to join Oxford High School as a Governor. You will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction and success of the School, supporting the Head and Senior Leadership Team, and championing the GDST’s mission to help every girl learn without limits.
The Role
* Strategic Development: Providing constructive feedback on the school’s performance and strategic priorities, balancing a local perspective with the GDST’s wider vision.
* Ambassadorship: Act as a visible advocate for Oxford High School and the GDST within the local community, helping to strengthen partnerships and raise the school’s profile.
* Support and Challenge: Serve as a “critical friend” to the Head and Senior Leadership Team, offering both support and constructive challenge, and taking an active interest in the life of the school by attending events and initiatives.
The Governors’ meetings are held once per term (3 times per year) in addition to which one day a month will be required.
Previous experience of working in a school is not essential and Governors from all professional backgrounds are welcome. In particular the school is keen to recruit Governors with an interest in junior school education, Early Years, philanthropy and safeguarding.
The role is not remunerated.
About Oxford High School
Oxford High School is the only all through girls’ school based in Oxford with girls aged from 4 to 19. This year Oxford High is celebrating its 150th year of educating and inspiring young women to take on the world, boldly, fearlessly and with compassion.
About The Girls’ Day School Trust
The Girls’ Day School Trust is a family of independent schools across England and Wales. Our schools deliver innovative learning for girls aged three to eighteen. From nursery, primary and prep school, throughout secondary school and Sixth Form, they learn in an environment where every girl thrives.
Who We’re Looking For?
Skills
* A deep commitment to the values and aspirations of Oxford High School and the GDST.
* Understanding of good governance, accountability, and shared decision-making.
* Strong relationship-building and communication skills.
* Sound judgement, integrity, and a diplomatic approach.
* The ability to analyse information and data to support effective decision-making.
* A commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.
* Willingness to dedicate time to meetings, school events, training, and collaboration with the Chair and fellow Governors.
Why Join Us?
Becoming a Governor at Oxford High School GDST offers the chance to make a tangible difference in a thriving educational community. You will work alongside experienced professionals, support the next generation of female leaders, and develop your own skills in governance and strategic leadership.
Interested?
If you are passionate about education and would like to contribute your expertise and enthusiasm to one of the UK’s most respected independent schools, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: 23:59 on Thursday 26th March 2026. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. An early application is therefore strongly advised.
The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.
Oxford High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including online checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Safeguarding Statement
The Girls’ Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
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