Employer: National Association of Special Schools (NASS)
This is a critical time for special schools, their learners and families. With the publication of the Schools White Paper and proposed SEND reforms, the sector is facing significant change. Strong, informed leadership has never been more important.
NASS is the membership organisation for special schools in England and Wales, providing support, advice, information, events, training and a strong national voice for the sector.
We are seeking three trustees to join our Board as we enter a period of growing influence and opportunity.
In October 2025, our members approved significant changes to NASS’s governance and vision. These changes have broadened the skills and perspectives guiding the organisation, ensuring our Board reflects a wide range of relevant expertise. They also strengthen member influence in decision-making and position NASS as a responsive, forward-looking charity.
Why join us?
As a trustee, you will help shape the future of NASS—guiding strategic direction, supporting effective governance, and ensuring the voice of special schools is heard where it matters most.
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on education and policy for children and young people with SEND at a time of national change.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking to appoint three trustees to join our Board, each serving a three-year term.
We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to NASS’s vision and mission, and whose skills and experience will add real value to our work. In particular, we are seeking:
- Membership organisation experience – understanding the needs of membership organisations and supporting sustainable growth (role available asap)
- Social care experience – bringing expertise in social care to inform NASS’s work (role available from July)
- Treasurer – providing financial oversight, ensuring financial sustainability, and maintaining robust financial governance (role available from November)
Time commitment
Trustees attend six Council meetings per year (a mix of virtual and face-to-face), including an annual strategy day and occasional external events. Trustees also contribute to committees and may take on additional responsibilities aligned to their expertise.
How to apply
For an informal chat about the role, please contact NASS Chair, Elizabeth Farnden, at chair@nasstrustees.org.uk
Request a copy of the recruitment pack and skills audit form from chair@nasstrustees.org.uk or NASS CEO, Claire Dorer, cdorer@nasschools.org.uk. If you are interested in the Treasurer role, please also request the role description.
To apply, email your covering letter and completed skills form to chair@nasstrustees.org.uk
Deadline for applications is Thursday 30th April, 9am
Online interviews will be held on Thursday 7th May