Taunton School is an exceptional day and boarding school set in 56-acres of beautiful Somerset countryside. It educates around 1,100 boys and girls from nursery-age to 18, inspiring them to achieve their utmost potential and preparing them for life beyond the school. The School is a registered charity with an annual income of around £25m.

Founded in 1847, Taunton School offers a striking blend of history and modernity. The original gothic-style building, a Grade II listed structure, is complemented by superb contemporary facilities. In 1907, William Henry Wills, 1st Baron Winterstoke, generously sponsored the construction of the Chapel, which remains a central pillar of the School's community to this day. Embodying an open and inclusive spirit, the School's ethos is rooted in Christian principles, warmly welcoming children of all faiths and backgrounds.

With a global outlook and grounded approach, Taunton School nurtures independence, resilience, and courage in its students. Proudly non-selective, and with academic achievement, sport and creativity celebrated in equal measure, children across the Nursery and Pre-Prep, Prep School, Senior School and International Schools thrive as their own person and are proud to be part of the Taunton School community. By the time children leave the School, they are equipped and ready to make a real difference in a global society.

With new Head, James Johnson, in post since last year, this is an exciting time for Taunton School. Over the coming years, the School has plans for further investment in its international school offering, while continuing to strive for excellence right across its academic, co-curricular and pastoral provision. The Board is ambitious for the School to remain the leading independent school of its kind in the South West.

The Chair of Governors plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting the strategic direction and overall success of the School. 

The Chair leads the Board of Governors in its responsibilities to:

• Secure the long term future of the School
• Ensure the highest possible standards of governance and regulatory compliance
• Support and, where appropriate, challenge the Head and executive leadership team to make the School the best it can be
• Ensure the proper and efficient conduct of Governor meetings

With Henry Keeling due to step down as Chair in the coming months, Taunton School is seeking his successor. The appointed individual will lead the Board as it supports the School through its next exciting chapter.

The successful candidate will be a committed, inclusive leader with a passion for education and substantial board-level experience. They will have a fundamentally collaborative approach, with the ability to listen to diverse perspectives and foster a cohesive team culture. Education sector experience is not a requirement, but candidates need to have shown longevity on other Boards - whether commercial or non-profit. Applicants must be comfortable in an ambassadorial role, able to communicate effectively and advocate for the School.

Above all, applicants must be committed to upholding and representing the values of Taunton School. As the Chair will need to spend time in the School, it is preferred that they live within a reasonable commutable distance of Taunton, and ideally will know the area well. 

A full list of current Governors can be found here. 

This role is unremunerated, however reasonable, pre-agreed travel expenses will be reimbursed. The main Board meets three times per year, usually in person at the School. The Chair will also be expected to join, and possibly chair, at least one of the Board's sub-committees. Committees meet a further three times per year. Face-to-face meetings are preferred, however they are sometimes hybrid in format to provide more flexibility. Additionally, the Chair will maintain a regular schedule of communications with the Head and will play an active role in School life by visiting and attending events throughout the year. The appointment is for a three-year term, which can be renewed at the discretion of the Board.

The School is located in Taunton, Somerset, and there is a preference for face-to-face meetings. Candidates will therefore be UK-based, and ideally based within a reasonable commutable distance of the School. 

Taunton School welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or disability. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.