We are seeking dedicated born again Christians to join our board of trustees to contribute to the governance of the Heathercombe Brake Trust Charity (‘the Trust’). The successful candidates will provide strategic support, guidance and expertise in leading the charity through a new phase. Working with the board and supporting the chairman, they will help in overseeing the running of our large estate and supporting a team of 20 members of staff. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of the strategic running of the charity and to influence long term decisions that will impact the lives of many young people into the future.
For over 30 years the Trust has been operating Heatree Activity Centre in Dartmoor National Park in Devon. The mission of the charity is to help develop physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing by providing opportunities and experiences for young people to explore and learn more about the Christian faith through the natural world. Sharing the Gospel message is at the heart of what we do and we have a dedicated and enthusiastic team who share this vision.
Heatree opened as an Outdoor Activity Centre in 1990 and is now one of the South West’s leading outdoor education providers and residential venues. The charity continues to fulfil the original aims set up by Miss Elizabeth Quantick in improving the lives of children and young people, especially those with disabilities and from deprived backgrounds, within a Christian environment.
The centre buildings, grounds and all aspects of the charity are held in trust and comprise of three main accommodation wings with additional properties on-site and extensive woodland and fields; a total of 80 hectares.
Following the damaging impact on the outdoor education industry as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and consequently many months of closure and uncertainty, the centre is undergoing a period of recovery. The board are currently in the process of implementing a new strategic vision and direction in order to continue the charitable work and create a sustainable future.
Despite the inevitable challenges, this is an exciting time for the charity, and we would welcome candidates who feel driven, inspired and enthusiastic to be part of this wonderful opportunity for new growth and to carry the vision of the charity.
This is an unpaid, voluntary role where all expenses are paid. Normally the board meet at least six times each year, however some additional ad hoc meetings may be required in the current period. Please note that it is a General Occupational Requirement (GOR) of the role that candidates are committed Christians as permitted in the Equality Act 2010.
If you feel you have skills that would be relevant to the role, we would like to hear from you. A combination of any of the following skills and experience however would be desirable:
To receive a recruitment pack and to arrange a site visit please contact Steve McIlhenny on s.mcilhenny@heatree.org or call 01647 221307. Interviews will be held with the full board of trustees at the next available board meeting.
As part of the application process candidates will be asked to complete a Skills Matrix to help us determine how they can enhance the capacity of the board to fulfil the obligations of the Charity Commission. An enhanced DBS check is also a requirement of this role.
There is no closing date for applications.