Trustee as Company Secretary

Wicklow Democratic School has been established in 2016 by parents seeking an educational alternative. Our organisation’s main object is the provision of education for children aged 5 - 18 in an environment that fully supports the freedom of each individual for self-initiated, self-motivated and self-regulated learning; providing a curriculum determined by the interests of students supported by facilitators and in which equal status shall be given to all pursuits; allowing the opportunities and responsibilities of governing the school to be shared among students and staff.

Our website is here.

After eight school years, we have entered an exciting and encouraging phase of growth. Our challenge now is to continue this development in a sustainable way and reach our full potential as an independent democratic school, showing that an alternative approach to education is possible and relevant.

With our organisation’s company Secretary stepping down we are now looking for an individual who resonates with our values to take over that role:

The specific aim of this role is to help drive the ongoing growth of Wicklow Democratic School by supporting good governance through the organisation and ensuring compliance with relevant codes and legislation. 

The Company Secretary will:

• Oversee compliance and administration around governance, including:
  • maintenance of governing documents

  • compliance with Charities Governance Code and other relevant codes in collaboration with the board and the school management

  • identifying potential governance issues and solutions

  • maintenance of the register of trustees.
• Convene board meetings, set and circulate agendas, take and circulate minutes at quarterly board meetings, and record board decisions
• Prepare AGMs and keep relevant records
• Prepare papers for induction of new Board Members

More details on the position of secretary as set out by the Charities Regulator can be found here.

Collectively as part of the board of trustees, the company secretary will help shape the overall governance and strategy of Wicklow Democratic School. This is likely to include:

• Setting overall strategy, with the aim of continuing the growth of the school and guarding against risk
• Supporting school staff
• Ensuring that the school complies with all relevant legislation

Board meetings

The Board of Trustees meets quarterly. There may sometimes be Extraordinary General Meetings. The Charity’s AGM is held at the end of January. Meetings have been held remotely in recent times.

Previous board experience is a plus, but motivation and engagement toward the charity best interest is essential.

While the school’s location is North-Wicklow we will consider any suitable candidates from surrounding counties.