Teach First
Chair
Teach First’s vision is for every child to fulfil their potential; its mission is to build a movement of Change Makers and leaders working together to tackle educational disadvantage. For over twenty years, Teach First has worked to end educational inequality, building a powerful movement of Change Makers united in the belief that every child deserves a brilliant education, no matter their background.
Since 2002, Teach First has recruited, trained and supported over 26,500 teachers, reaching 5,500 schools across England, with a focus on those serving the most disadvantaged communities. Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom, through a network of Ambassadors who go on to lead schools, shape policy, and drive social change.
This is a significant moment to join as Chair of Trustees. Working closely with our newly appointed CEO, James Toop, you will lead the Board in shaping the charity’s next chapter and driving its strategic ambitions. You will ensure robust governance; champion Teach First’s mission, and enable the organisation to maintain and grow its impact. As Chair, you will play a vital role in fostering an effective and high-performing Board, supporting and challenging the executive leadership, and representing Teach First at the highest levels of government, policy and civil society.
We are seeking an outstanding leader with a deep commitment to educational and social equality. You will bring a track record of senior non-executive leadership. You will be a champion of social mobility and social justice and the power of education to address inequality. Happy to draw on strong networks to open doors, influence policy, and champion our cause, you will be an advocate of our work and the young people we serve. You will have excellent strategic and governance skills, sound independent judgement, and the ability to build consensus. An inclusive, inspiring communicator, you will bring energy, empathy and a shared passion for helping us make sure that every child fulfils their potential.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as partner to Teach First on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference RBQTB. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on 24th July 2025.
View the appointment brief here
Teach First’s vision is for every child to fulfil their potential