Prior’s Court exists to transform the lives of the autistic young people with complex needs in our care; to help them achieve the impossible and give their families the magic moments they never thought they would have.
The young people we work with often come to us in crisis, many having been excluded from traditional education or taught in isolation. What they find here is transformational: safety, stability, and the chance to progress in ways their families once thought impossible.
Through a highly specialised approach, tailored environments, and skilled staff, young people develop communication abilities, learn daily living skills, improve their health, and begin to engage in meaningful, work-related activities. Families often describe the experience as life-changing:
Prior’s Court has changed our lives for the better in such a short time... My daughter has flourished.
We believe every autistic young person with complex needs has untapped potential. And we never stop working to unlock it.
The role
Type: Trustee or Committee Member
Location: Berkshire (with flexible/hybrid options)
Commitment: Approx. 13 days per year
Term: 3 years (renewable, up to 9 years total)
Remuneration: Voluntary (travel expenses reimbursed)
Board meetings take place four times a year, including an annual away day. Members also sit on one of our specialist subcommittees (Education or Care), which meet quarterly.
Why now?
This is an exciting and pivotal time for Prior’s Court. As we continue to grow our reach and influence, we are looking for new Trustees and Committee Members to help guide our vision and governance.
You’ll join a committed team focused on strategic leadership and driving innovation in autism education and care - building on a reputation described by Ofsted (February 2025) as:
A remarkable school where pupils flourish.
Who we’re looking for
We are keen to hear from individuals with:
1. Experience in special educational needs or inclusive education
2. Background in children’s residential care
3. Lived experience as a parent, sibling, carer, or former service user
We also welcome applicants with other relevant skills, such as in governance, finance, digital strategy, or equity and inclusion.
You don’t need to have board experience. Just a commitment to our and a desire to help transform the lives of autistic young people with complex needs.
How to apply
We’re accepting applications until 1 October 2025.
To express your interest, please send a CV and a short covering letter outlining your interest and what you would bring to the role to Vanessa Burgess on
If you'd like an informal conversation or to arrange a visit to Prior’s Court before applying, we’d be very happy to hear from you.
As a regulated service supporting vulnerable young people, all appointments are subject to DBS, reference, and qualification checks.
Published: 13th August, 2024
Updated: 4th August, 2025
Author: Dan Whiteway
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