Board Member (General)

External Board Member (General) - True Nature Sudbury School

About True Nature Sudbury School

True Nature Sudbury School is an alternative democratic education community where young people are trusted to direct their own learning, develop independence, and grow through freedom, responsibility, creativity, and real-life experience.

Inspired by the Sudbury model of education, the school is grounded in respect for children and young people as capable individuals who learn naturally through self-directed exploration, meaningful relationships, and participation in a democratic community.

We are seeking to appoint an External Board Member / Trustee who believes in child-led education and who wishes to contribute to the growth and long-term sustainability of an innovative educational model in Ireland.

Role Description

The External Board Member / Trustee will support the governance, strategic direction, and long-term development of True Nature Sudbury School.

This voluntary position is suited to someone who values democratic education, understands the importance of alternative learning approaches, and wishes to contribute their professional skills, insight, and advocacy to support the school community.

The board works collaboratively to ensure the school operates ethically, sustainably, legally, and in alignment with its core philosophy and values.

Key Responsibilities

The External Board Member / Trustee will:

• Support the strategic development and sustainability of the school
• Uphold and advocate for the principles of democratic and self-directed education
• Attend board meetings and actively contribute to discussions and decision-making
• Assist with governance, policy oversight, and organisational development
• Support good financial oversight and responsible stewardship of the organisation
• Offer professional expertise, guidance, and independent perspective
• Act as an ambassador for the school and its mission
• Support compliance with relevant legal, safeguarding, governance, and charity obligations
• Contribute to long-term planning and growth opportunities
• Promote a culture of collaboration, respect, inclusion, and transparency

Person Specification

We are particularly interested in individuals who:

• Have a genuine interest in democratic, self-directed, alternative, or child-centred education
• Believe young people thrive when trusted and respected
• Have experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Education
  • Governance
  • Charity or non-profit leadership
  • Legal or compliance
  • Finance or accounting
  • Business development
  • Communications or marketing
  • Community development
• Are collaborative, thoughtful, and values-led
• Can contribute independent thinking and constructive challenge
• Are committed to ethical governance and safeguarding
• Are willing to advocate publicly for innovative educational approaches

Previous board experience is welcome but not essential.

Time Commitment

• Approximately one board meeting per month (online and/or in person)
• Occasional additional involvement for strategic planning or events
• Flexible voluntary commitment

What You Will Gain

This is an opportunity to:

• Support a pioneering democratic education initiative in Ireland
• Contribute meaningfully to the future of alternative education
• Be part of a values-driven and innovative community
• Develop governance and leadership experience
• Help shape an educational environment built on trust, autonomy, and wellbeing