Due to the retirement of the current, successful postholder, the diocesan Education Service is recruiting for a Trust Relationship Officer to support the development of trusts and schools in the Archdiocese of Southwark.
Job Title: Trust Relationship Officer
Employer: Archdiocese of Southwark CIO, Bowen House, 58 Westminster Bridge Road, London mainly based at Diocesan Education Service, St Edwards House, St Edward’s House, St Paul’s Wood Hill, Orpington BR5 2SR
Job Type: Full-time, 52 weeks/year
About Us: The Archdiocese of Southwark is a vibrant and inclusive community dedicated to serving the mission of the Church. We aim to recruit and develop staff who are committed to making a positive impact through their work. There are 162 schools across the diocese in the geographic regions of South London, Kent and Medway with five Catholic academy trusts established.
Role Overview: We are seeking a dedicated and dynamic Trust Relationship Officer to join the service team of nine people. This role is pivotal in fostering and maintaining relationships with trusts and schools in promoting the Archdiocese’s mission and activities. The person appointed will support the needs of schools and academies in the area of two trusts and the schools yet to convert. You will work alongside colleagues supporting other trusts. Ensuring the Archbishop’s vision for his schools is implemented and best practice is shared. Ability to get to schools anywhere in the diocese is essential.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and manage relationships with existing trusts and their academies to ensure the diocesan requirements for its education mission are met.
- Assist schools and CATs with conversion liaising with DfE where necessary
- Provide advice on all reserved post recruitment attending preparation meetings and interviews.
- Advise other diocesan departments of any relevant issues eg. property
- Research new opportunities for CAT development and promote best practice at board level
- Support staff and governor training including preparation for inspection both CSI and Ofsted.
- Advise all schools on specific project areas such as admissions and place planning engaging with external organisations as required.
- Experience of working with other educational organisations such as LAs, DfE and Ofsted
- Raise any concerns and intervene if necessary to avoid adverse events
- Provide reports for the Education Committee when required
- Establish a strong strategic relationship ensure timely reporting and communication with central teams.
- Maintain accurate records of all interactions and activities
- Any other delegated responsibilities
Qualifications and Experience:
- A committed and practising Catholic upholding the tenets of the Church
- A degree in a relevant field, NPQH desirable
- Experience in a senior leadership post in an academy trust, school, government department, local authority or similar.
- A good knowledge of the operating requirements of a multi-academy trust
- A strong understanding of Catholic education in all phases of schools (secondary experience desirable) especially aspects pertaining to CSI inspection.
- A practical knowledge of effective and appropriate governance in trusts and schools in order to support boards and their chairs.
- Commitment to the values and mission of the Archdiocese of Southwark
- Strong organizational and project management abilities with excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team travelling across the diocese as necessary.
- Any other delegated responsibilities
What We Offer:
- £60,000 salary (including TPS where appropriate).
- 33 days holiday including bank holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and growth.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment including working from home as agreed
- The chance to make a meaningful impact in the Church community.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a diocesan application form outlining their suitability for the role to angelacox@rcaos.org.uk by 23 May 2025 12pm These can be obtained from Donna Gray donnagray@rcaos.org.uk. Interviews 30 May 2025.
Further information: This is available from Daniel Coleman by emailing danielcoleman@rcaos.org.uk to arrange a discussion.