The greatest strength of ASCL is that it is run by members, for members. Our policy-making 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 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 50 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.
A number of vacancies for regional and sector representatives on Council will become available from September 2022, to serve four-year terms.
Council by-election: North East region
A further opportunity to represent the North East region on Council has now arisen. This is open to any full ASCL member in the following areas: Darlington, Durham, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Redcar & Cleveland, Stockton-on-Tees, Sunderland.
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 Monday 20 June. In the event of there being more than one nomination, an election will be held.
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, Director of Policy
julie.mcculloch@ascl.org.uk