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.