James Brindley Academy is part of the Think Differently Education Trust, the multi‑academy trust responsible for the strategic governance and oversight of the Academy. The Trust is accountable for setting the overall vision, values and strategic direction of its schools, ensuring strong governance, and providing appropriate challenge and support to secure high standards, financial probity and the wellbeing of children and young people.

Governance within the Trust is structured to ensure clear lines of accountability. This includes Members, a Board of Trustees, and committees that oversee key areas such as finance, audit, and standards. James Brindley Academy operates within this wider Trust governance framework, with its leadership working closely with trustees and Trust officers to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of pupils, families and staff, and in line with statutory and regulatory requirements.

Further information about the Trust’s governance arrangements, trustee roles and responsibilities, and where James Brindley Academy sits within this structure can be found by following the link below to the Think Differently Education Trust website.

Volunteering as a Trustee

The board is looking for motivated and committed people to join our unique educational provision as Community Trustees. Being a trustee is a highly rewarding experience.  You will make a real difference to the lives of the young people who attend here. The board subscribes to the Framework for Ethical Leadership in Education in its expectations and work. 

In 2019 the board won the National Governance Association “Outstanding Governance Award for a Single School”.  We are now looking to appoint someone with general leadership or HR experience.  There are also development opportunities to take on leadership roles on the board.   The most important requirement is that you have the needs of our young people as a priority, so if these areas of experience don’t apply to you, but you have the energy, curiosity and time to make a commitment we would very much like to hear from you.  We welcome interest from adults of all backgrounds.

The senior leadership team and trustees are working to fulfil the vision to “think differently to inspire young people to overcome all barriers and achieve their dreams”.  If your skills complement our priorities, we would like to hear from you. 

Committee meetings are currently held on-line through Teams, starting at 5pm.  The Board meeting is held in-person (although there is a hybrid option) at Head Office on Bell Barn Road, B15 2AF from 5.30pm – 7.30pm. Meetings are usually held on Mondays. Please be aware that you will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, required to register for the DBS update service and will need to be eligible to be a trustee. 

 We have the highest aspirations for our young people and see no barrier and no limit to what they can achieve. 

Claire Marshall
Chair of Trustee Board

(April 2026)

 For further details please contact Jo Murgatroyd (Company Secretary) at murgatroydj@jamesbrindley.org.uk or 0121 666 6409 x 2119 

Think Differently Education Trust is a Trust committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all children. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.