The process of becoming an academy trustee

We make the process of becoming an academy trustee efficient and easy.

Registration process – the process of becoming an academy trustee

Joining an academy trust as an academy trustee is simple with the Trustee Recruitment Service.

  1. Register: After you sign up, we’ll share a range of resources for your information and perusal: these will equip you with the knowledge and information required as you start your journey as an academy trustee.
  2. Review: Once we have a suitable match for you, we’ll help arrange a 45-minute call with one of our experienced advisers. They’ll discuss your background, skills, and the potential role/s of interest.  
  3. Share: If you’re happy for us to submit a formal expression of interest with the trust(s) on your behalf, we send over a precis of your experience and background for their review and consideration. 
  4. Connect: If there’s mutual interest, we’ll introduce you to their lead, and you’ll handle the rest directly with the academy trust.

We recommend reviewing our ‘Become an academy trustee’ pages to understand the academy trustee role before your call.

NB if you originally applied for a specific vacancy, or were approached by our team, you will immediately move to the review step in the process. You’ll also receive the information and resources above. 

How long does the process of becoming an academy trustee take?

The timeline varies based on factors like your location, skills, and the type of academy trust you want to support. Sometimes, introductions happen quickly after your initial call, but in other cases, it may take some time to find the right match. We’ll keep you updated and answer any questions along the way.

The academy trust is responsible for all formal appointments and related steps.

DBS checks and length of term

The length of your academy trustee term is dependent on the academy trust and opportunity. Typically however, you’ll be in the role for four years.

All appointed candidates will be subject to background checks (DBS) and references. This is due to the nature of the role, and potential contact with young and/or vulnerable people.

Induction, training and onboarding

The academy trust is responsible for ensuring you are fully inducted. They make sure you have all of the correct documents, data and information to begin your new role, and provide any relevant training.

If you find you don’t receive this quickly, it’s a good idea to raise this with the governance lead. This ensures you receive the appropriate information. You’ll also be given some helpful induction modules and training materials through Governors for Schools’ Trustee Recruitment Service. This, however, is intended to support, rather than replace, what is provided by the academy trust.

Ready to apply to become an academy trustee?

Make a lasting impact on education by becoming an academy trustee, where your skills and experience can help shape young people's futures.

Join us in supporting schools to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Apply to become an academy trustee