Apply to become a Student Trustee
Did you know your Union is a charity? Are you looking for a unique voluntary opportunity where you can gain experience and develop skills that will look great on your CV? Then why not apply to join your Students’ Union’s Board of Trustees?
What is the Board of Trustees?
As a registered charity, your Union is led by a Board of Trustees and collectively they have legal responsibility for the work of the organisation. This includes developing the Union’s strategy and monitoring its progress, ensuring the Union is financially and legally compliant and that it’s always focussed on delivering its charitable objectives and is acting in accordance with its Articles of Association. The Board is also responsible for ensuring the Union is led by the needs of all its members. This is a 'big picture' strategic role all about ensuring the Union is here for many years to come. The Board are not responsible for the day-to-day running of the Union as this is delegated to the Director and the Board guide and support their work.
Who is on the Board of Trustees?
Your President is a member of the Board and is appointed Deputy Chair. There are 2 appointed student trustees and 4 appointed external trustees, one of which is Chair, who bring their professional expertise and experience to the Board.
Why should I apply to become a Student Trustee?
You should apply to join the Board if you’re interested in gaining Board level experience of a charity, want to ensure your Union is well governed and that the experiences of all RAU students are the best they can be. You will develop skills in leadership and management, charity law, strategy, finance and governance. And you will help to ensure RAU students are at the heart of all decisions. It’s also a great networking opportunity as you will work alongside professionals from different walks of life and have the opportunity to meet with other Students’ Union trustees too.
What is the time commitment and will training be provided?
There are 6 Board of Trustee meetings every academic year which are around 2 -3 hours long and you will be expected to read papers to prepare for these in advance. You will receive a thorough induction and we will also provide training opportunities throughout the year and we would ask that you are involved in the life of the Union and attend key events where possible.
Will I be paid and how long is the role for?
This is a voluntary role so you will not be paid but you can claim reasonable expenses in line with Union policy and refreshments are provided at all Board meetings. The appointment is until summer 2026 with the option to extend until summer 2027 if you are eligible and you and the Board agree to extend the appointment.
Who is eligible to become a Student Trustee?
All RAU students are eligible to apply to become a Student Trustee and you must be a registered student throughout the duration of your appointment. This is a responsible role where you will be an ambassador for the Union, acting in the best interests of the Union as a whole. You will need to adhere to confidentiality and collective decision making and you will be expected to uphold the Nolan Principles of Standards in Public Life
You must be at least 18 years old and be willing to be registered with the Charity Commission and Companies House. You cannot act as a Trustee if you are disqualified under the Charities Act, including if you have an unspent conviction for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (such as fraud) are bankrupt or have entered into a formal arrangement with a creditor or have been removed as a company director or charity trustee because of wrongdoing.
How do I apply?
Please submit your CV and a supporting statement outlining why you are interested in joining the Board of Trustees and what experience, skills and qualities you would bring to the role of Student Trustee.
Please email these to su@rausu.co.uk by 9am on Monday 24 November 2025.
Interviews will be held on Monday 1 December 2025.
Any questions?
If you have any questions about the role, please email su@rausu.co.uk
Further information
When completing your application it would be useful to take into account your Union’s current mission, vision and values and how you would support them:
Vision
A thriving student community where every RAU student feels supported, empowered, and proud to belong.
Mission
To represent, support and connect students – amplifying their voices, improving their experience, and building a stronger university community.
Values
- Student-led – We put students at the heart of everything we do. Their needs, ideas and voices drive our decisions.
- Collaborative – We build relationships based on trust, openness and shared purpose – across the University, with partners, and among students.
- Inclusive – We create spaces and opportunities where everyone feels welcome, seen, and valued.
- Accountable – We are transparent in our decisions, responsible with our resources, and committed to continual improvement.
- Bold – We are not afraid to challenge, to change, or to lead – when it matters, we show up and speak out.
