Opportunity to join Council as an elected member
The greatest strength of ASCL is that it is run by members, for members. Our policymaking body is formed from a group of elected members collectively known as Council. All categories of member are represented, and the ratio of Council representatives to members is more generous in ASCL than in any of the other unions and professional associations. This democratic base is fundamental to serving our diverse membership and is essential to our continuing success and effectiveness.
ASCL Council consists of around 60 elected ASCL members. The main purpose of Council is to determine our position on key policy issues. These positions are then used by the Presidential Trio, General Secretary and policy team to engage with ministers and civil servants, and by our public relations team in our messaging to the media.
Council meets three times during the academic year. A Council meeting consists of plenary sessions, debates on ‘hot’ topics, a forum session with a visiting speaker, and attendance at one of five committees.
Council by-election: West Midlands region
An opportunity to represent the West Midlands region on Council has arisen as a result of one of the current representatives for this region stepping down. This is open to any full ASCL member in the following areas: Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Herefordshire, Sandwell, Shropshire, Solihull, Staffordshire, City of Stoke on Trent, Telford and Wrekin, Walsall, Warwickshire, Wolverhampton, Worcestershire.
If you would like to put yourself forward for this position, please complete the
nomination form. Forms should be emailed to
counciladmin@ascl.org.uk no later than
12pm on Friday 18 July 2025.
If we need to hold an election, this will take place in September, with results announced week beginning 22 September.
We would particularly welcome nominations from people from groups currently under-represented on ASCL Council, including women, representatives of BAME and LGBT+ communities, assistant and deputy heads, and leaders based in early years, primary or FE settings.
If you have any questions, either about the nomination process or about Council membership, please contact Julie McCulloch, Senior Director of Strategy, Policy & Professional Development
julie.mcculloch@ascl.org.uk