Help shape the Urdd’s future

We’re seeking four individuals to join the Board. One position is reserved for a young person aged 18-25.

The ability to speak Welsh is essential.

Successful applicants will be presented for approval at the Urdd’s General Meeting in November.

Timetable

Application form

Complete the application form by Monday, 19 October 2026

Shortlist

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an initial discussion

Appointments

Appointments will be presented at the Urdd’s General Meeting for approval

Message from the Chair

The Urdd plays a unique role in the lives of children and young people across Wales, and this is an opportunity to help shape the next chapter of our story.

We welcome applications from individuals with a wide range of perspectives, experiences and skills, who can contribute constructively to the governance and strategic development of the organisation.

This is a valuable opportunity to make a genuine difference to the future of young people and the Welsh language by contributing to the work of one of Wales’s largest organisations.

As a national youth organisation, I believe it is essential that young people have a voice in decisions about their future. That is why one of the four vacancies is reserved for an individual aged 18-25. This role will help ensure that the perspectives and experiences of young people remain at the heart of the Urdd’s work and governance.

I look forward to receiving your application.

Nia Bennett
Chair, Urdd Gobaith Cymru

Why join the Board of Trustees?

The Urdd is one of Wales’s largest and most influential organisations, working with children and young people through youth work, sport, the arts, apprenticeships, residential centres, volunteering, and international activities. With more than 300 staff, hundreds of casual workers, and up to 10,000 volunteers, the Urdd makes a difference to the lives of young people across Wales every day.

As a Trustee, you will help shape the strategic direction of the Urdd, oversee risk and resources, and ensure that the organisation delivers its charitable purposes and future ambitions.

  • Help shape the strategic direction of the Urdd.
  • Ensure strong governance and oversight of risk, finance, and safeguarding.
  • Provide constructive support and challenge to the Chief Executive and senior leadership team.
  • Contribute independent judgement and make decisions in the best interests of the organisation.
  • Act as an ambassador for the Urdd and its values.

Trustees will contribute to the work of the Urdd’s Strategic Boards and, where appropriate, lead or chair their activities. Technical expertise is not the primary requirement for chairing a Strategic Board; rather, it is the ability to lead discussions, facilitate consensus, and support effective decision-making.

We are seeking individuals who have the ability, or in the case of the 18-25-year-old applicant, the potential, to:

  • Share the Urdd’s values and our commitment to children, young people, and the Welsh language.
  • Think strategically and see the bigger picture.
  • Analyse information, ask insightful questions, and assess risks and opportunities.
  • Make sound and balanced decisions.
  • Provide constructive challenge and support, while listening to different perspectives.
  • Work effectively as part of a Board and commit to contributing to its work.
  • Lead or contribute effectively to discussions.
  • Understand the distinction between governance and operational management.

We are keen to create a Board that reflects a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. Experience in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:

  • Legal and Governance – law, regulation, charitable or corporate governance.
  • Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations – policy, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management.
  • Inclusion, Equality and Diversity – promoting services and decision-making that reflect the diversity of communities across Wales.
  • Children and Young People – experience of, or insight into, the needs, rights, and development of children and young people.

Experience of leading, facilitating, or chairing would be an advantage, but we are equally keen to hear from individuals who have the potential to develop these skills.

One of the four vacancies is reserved for an individual aged 18-25, ensuring that the voices and experiences of young people remain a central part of the Board’s work.

Previous experience as a Trustee is not required. We are looking for someone who is passionate about making a difference, keen to contribute ideas, ask questions, and develop as a leader.

We will provide:

  • A full induction and ongoing support for the role.
  • Opportunities to develop leadership and governance skills.
  • Valuable experience as a member of the Board of one of Wales’s largest organisations.
  • Ongoing support to build confidence and contribute effectively.

Handy links

Commitment

Your commitment to the role is expected as follows:

  • 5 meetings per year (4 online meetings, 1 face-to-face).
  • Occasional opportunities to contribute to an additional strategic planning day. 

  • Membership of, or chairing, one Strategic Board as required.
  • Up to 4 meetings per year.

  • Reading papers and preparing for discussions and decision-making.
  • Induction, training, and ongoing development opportunities.

  • Use your experience and networks to promote the work and impact of the Urdd.
  • Represent the organisation at relevant events and opportunities from time to time.

Board business is conducted through the medium of Welsh, so trustees will need to be able to contribute confidently to Board discussions in Welsh.

The current Chair of the Urdd Board of Trustees will complete their term of office in 2027, and a separate process will be undertaken to appoint a new Chair. We will also be looking to strengthen the Board’s experience in Human Resources and people development during this period.

While these appointments are not part of the current recruitment process, we are keen to build a Board with the strength, depth, and succession planning needed for the future.

How to apply?

We want to keep the process simple.

Applicants are required to complete our Welsh application form via Microsoft Forms.

We will ask about:

  • Why you would like to join the Board.
  • The skills and experience you can offer.
  • An example of how you have contributed to decision-making or strategic thinking.

Applicants aged 18-25: We will focus on your potential, your perspectives, and what you would like to develop, rather than any previous Board experience.

  • Applications will be assessed against the needs of the Board.
  • Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an initial discussion.
  • Eligibility and conflict of interest checks will be undertaken.
  • Appointments will be presented to the Urdd General Meeting for approval.

Closing Date: 19 October 2026

Interviews: To be confirmed

General Meeting: 30 November 2026

Questions?

If you would like to discuss the role or require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please contact Catrin James.

E-mail