Parent School Board Member Vacancy

The schools in West Midlands Academy Trust (WMAT) each have a School Board. These boards act as the local governing body for the school, and report to the Board of Trustees. I am writing to you to invite you to stand for election as a Parent School Board Member or to nominate another parent to do so. We currently have 1 vacancy, and the term of office is 4 years. 

Who can apply?

To be able to volunteer, you need to be a parent or carer (or someone who has parental responsibility) for a child at Swanshurst School. You do not need any specific qualifications. The accompanying sheet summarises the eligibility those wishing to stand for election must satisfy.

To fulfil the role, you will need to:

• attend regular meetings (around 4 each year)
• make efforts to support panel meetings that are called, as required
• visit the school occasionally
• do some background reading
• take part in induction training and ongoing development (which will be provided for you)

Every School Board needs a balance and diversity of knowledge, skills and experience. The School Board would welcome applications from those with the following:

• Change management and consultation
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities 
• Inclusion
• Careers Advice and Guidance 

How to apply

If you would like to apply, please complete the nomination form and return it to tdavies@swanshurst.org by 9am on Friday 19th December 2025. If you are putting someone else forward for nomination, please make sure they are happy for you to do so.

If there are more nominations than vacancies, we will conduct a secret ballot. If that is necessary, voting papers and instructions will be sent to all parents and carers.

Yours faithfully,

Mrs T Davies 
Returning Officer