Skip to content
  • Trustee Recruitment

    Trustee Recruitment
    St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust
    Registered Charity
    London / Surrey Hills (with some remote participation)
    Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
    Term: 5 years (maximum, renewable)

    About the Trust
    The St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School Trust owns and oversees the Mill, a residential 
    outdoor learning centre in the Surrey Hills National Landscape.


    The Mill provides outdoor and residential experiences for young people from London, particularly 
    pupils of William Ellis School, an inclusive, all boys’ state comprehensive school in Camden, North 
    London. It offers opportunities to build confidence, independence, resilience and community 
    through time away from the city.


    The Trust exists to preserve and strengthen this resource for current and future generations. It 
    safeguards the land and buildings, supports long-term sustainability, and works in partnership with the School and wardens who manage the site day to day.


    The Opportunity
    We are seeking to appoint a new trustee to join a small, committed board at an important point in 
    the Trust’s development.


    The Trust is entering a period of renewed strategic focus, including:
    • Strengthening governance and long-term sustainability
    • Supporting capital improvements to the site
    • Clarifying roles and responsibilities with partners
    • Preparing towards the Mill’s centenary in 2029
    • Developing clearer communication and fundraising capacity
    We are looking for someone who will contribute thoughtfully to this next phase — bringing both 
    practical insight and strategic judgement.


    Role of a Trustee
    Trustees are collectively responsible for:
    • Safeguarding the Trust’s land and buildings
    • Ensuring the charity pursues its objects for public benefit
    • Providing strategic direction and oversight
    • Ensuring sound financial management and risk awareness
    • Supporting and constructively challenging board decisions
    • Acting as ambassadors for the Trust’s purpose


    The Trust does not manage day-to-day operations of the site; this is undertaken by wardens under 
    arrangements with the School. Trustees focus on governance, long-term stewardship and 
    sustainability.


    Skills and Experience of Interest
    We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in one or more of the following:
    Outdoor and Residential Education
    • Experience in outward-bound or adventurous activity leadership
    • British Mountaineering Leader or similar qualifications
    • Senior experience in organisations such as the Youth Hostels Association or comparable 
    residential providers


    Land and Estate Management
    • Experience managing rural sites, buildings or facilities
    • Knowledge of maintenance planning, conservation, or environmental stewardship
    • Understanding of health and safety in residential settings
    Project or Capital Development
    • Experience overseeing infrastructure or refurbishment projects
    • Ability to support planning, budgeting and risk management
    Fundraising and Income Development
    • Experience with charitable fundraising, donor engagement, grant applications or partnerships
    • Understanding of how to develop sustainable income streams
    Prior trustee experience is welcome but not essential.
    Values and Approach
    We are looking for someone who:
    • Believes strongly in widening access to opportunity for young people
    • Understands issues of equality, diversity and inclusion
    • Recognises that many inner-city pupils do not automatically have access to the 
    experiences their more affluent peers enjoy
    • Is committed to ensuring that outdoor education remains accessible and meaningful
    • Brings sound judgement, integrity and a collaborative style
    • Is willing to offer constructive challenge where appropriate

    This is a small charity. Trustees must be prepared to contribute time and thought, not simply lend 
    their name.

    Time Commitment
    • Approximately 3–4 board meetings per year
    • Occasional additional meetings or working group involvement
    • Periodic visits to the Mill are encouraged
    Equality and Inclusion
    We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and welcome expressions of interest 
    from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experience.


    How to Express Interest
    To express interest, please send:
    • A short statement (no more than 2 pages) outlining your relevant experience and 
    motivation
    • A brief CV
    To: Sam White, Chair of St Marylebone Camp of William Ellis School c/o 
    hr@williamellis.camden.sch.uk
    Deadline: 31st May 2026, though we reserve the right to respond to strong candidates before this 
    deadline
    Informal enquiries are welcome and can be directed to the email address above
    This opportunity will initially be shared through relevant professional and community networks.