Search begins for Board members

The Department of Education is inviting applications for membership to four Education and Library Boards.

Membership of the existing Boards ends on 31 December 2009 and transitional arrangements are being put in place until the Education and Skills Authority is established.

The Department is seeking to appoint “general interest” members through this process. Other members of the Boards will be appointed through nominations from relevant organisations.

Applications are invited for membership of the Belfast, North Eastern, Southern and Western Education and Library Boards. The total number of posts across the boards is 21.

Board members are expected to make a time commitment of at least 25 to 30 hours per month, including evening meetings and public occasions. Members receive payments by way of attendance allowances or financial loss allowances in relation to their functions as members of the board.

Applicants will be expected to complete a short application form to describe how they meet certain key requirements for appointment; an eligibility sift of applications forms will be carried out by the Department; and ‘conversations with a purpose’ will be held with eligible candidates to confirm and validate the suitability of candidates for the post. The decision on those who will be appointed will be made by the Minister of Education.

The application form can be downloaded from the Department of Education’s website or copies can be requested from the Educational Governance Team, Department of Education, Telephone 028 9127 9461 or e-mail egppt@deni.gov.uk.

Applications should be returned to the address on the application form by 31 December 2009.

Notes to editors:

1. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.