The Harpur Trust is looking for a new Finance Trustee to join its Board, and is helping Pilgrims Pre-Prep School and HEART Academies Trust to also find new Board members.
This voluntary role as Finance Trustee at The Harpur Trust offers a unique opportunity for an experienced finance professional to make a lasting impact on education and the local community while contributing to the governance of one of the UK’s 200 largest charities by turnover.
The Finance Trustee will play a key role in overseeing the charity’s financial strategy and risk management, contributing to committees such as Finance and Audit, and acting as a critical friend to senior leadership.
Candidates should bring strong financial expertise, ideally as a current or former Finance Director, and a commitment to good governance. Benefits include the chance to influence strategic decisions for the only large charity dedicated to Bedford, a tailored induction and ongoing training.
Rhian Castell, Chair of The Harpur Trust, said: “Joining our Board as a Finance Trustee is a chance to make a real difference. Your expertise will help us continue our vital work supporting education and community initiatives across Bedford. We’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to nurturing potential improving lives and wants to be part of a charity with an exciting future.”
Founded over 450 years ago by Sir William Harpur, the Trust’s mission is to nurture potential and improve lives. Today, we continue to nurture talent, support families and champion education, working in partnership to raise aspirations and release Bedford’s full potential.
We educate thousands of pupils across four first class independent schools, sponsor state education via HEART Academies Trust, and provide more than £1 million to local community groups each year. We also host Bedford Giving and run the Accelerator Programme, two innovative and collaborative community programmes supporting children and young people in Bedford.
Find out more and how to apply
To apply submit your CV and covering letter to info@harpurtrust.org.uk, addressing the competencies outlined in the Role Description and Knowledge, Skills & Experience section of the pack.
Closing date: 23 February 2026
OTHER TRUSTEE OPPORTUNITIES
There are other marketing and education trustee opportunities at our Pilgrims Pre Prep School and at the HEART Academies Trust, which we are proud sponsors of, in helping the multi-academy trust to create a family of schools at the heart of the community. Find out more in the dropdowns below.
