What is a Trustee? 

BCUSU is an independent charity that aims to improve the academic experience for students at BCU. In the UK, charity law requires Students’ Unions to have a Board of Trustees, who ensure that a charity is operating correctly.  

In our case, Trustees ensure that we are working towards our vision and goals, as well as having students’ interest at the heart of our decisions. Please note, this is an unpaid, volunteer position.  

What experience do you need? 

You do not need any experience to be a trustee, but it is a voluntary position, so a time commitment is needed. You must be an enrolled student at BCU, and the term in this role is one year. 

What will I do? 

As a Student Trustee, you will sit on the Board of Trustees and give a student perspective on how BCUSU is being run, and how you think we should move forward.  

You will need to be available for meetings around 2-3 hours long, 8 times a year, plus a Trustee away day. In meetings you will discuss BCUSU’s finances, Strategic Plan, the management of the organisation and much more. 

Why apply? 

You’ll gain experience in running a charity with a turnover just short of £4 million (great for your CV!)

This is a great opportunity to significantly impact BCUSU and students’ experience. As we introduce a new strategy and Officer Team, we are incredibly positive about the opportunities ahead for students. As a Student Trustee you would have a key involvement in how your Students’ Union is ran. You will also receive training and ongoing support to help you do this role effectively. 

Who are we looking for? 

We’re looking for a student that is: 

• Passionate about their student experience and can communicate their personal experience effectively 

• Willing to give their opinion about BCUSU and share the opinion of other students 

• Able to read papers before a meeting and can communicate through email 

• Attentive at meetings and contribute where appropriate 

• Willing to commit to the role for a minimum of 2 year (during your studies) 

We are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive workplace that benefits our students and staff therefore we are actively encouraging applications who are UK home students, LGBTQ+, Black, Disabled to apply as this reflects some of the gaps in the incoming Trustee Board. Please note: this role if for an immediate start.

Principle purpose of role: 

• Ultimately responsible for directing the affairs of BCUSU  

• Ensure that BCUSU is well run and delivers the objectives for which it has been set up 

• Ensure that BCUSU works for and with its membership in all that it does 

Application process: 

This is a rolling vacancy, and will remain open for applications until positions are filled.

Step 1 - 

Read the full job description to see if you'd be right for this role.

Job description and shortlisting criteria (PDF)

Step 2 -

Submit your online application below. 

Helpful tip: During your application, you will be asked “Why should we consider you for this role?” Your answer should demonstrate how you meet the person specification on the full job description. 

Apply now!

Step 3 -

Successful applicants will be invited to an interview within 5 days of their application.