Join the Octagon Music Hub Strategic Board

Octagon Music Hub is inviting expressions of interest from people who would like to join its Strategic Board, as part of an exciting period of governance renewal and development.

The Hub works across Dorset & Somerset to support high-quality, inclusive music education and progression opportunities for children and young people. Following a recent governance review, we are refreshing our Strategic Board to ensure it is skills-based, independent, representative and well-placed to guide the Hub into its next phase.

About the Strategic Board

The Strategic Board provides oversight, challenge and strategic direction for the Hub. It plays a vital role in ensuring that:

• decisions are informed by evidence and need
• public funding is used transparently and effectively
• children and young people remain at the heart of strategy
• the Hub meets the expectations of Arts Council England and its partners

The Board does not manage day-to-day delivery. Instead, it focuses on governance, accountability and long-term strategic priorities.

Who we are looking for

We are keen to hear from people with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Education (primary, secondary, MATs, FE or HE)
• SEND or alternative provision
• Early Years/Early Years Music
• Community development
• Cultural or creative organisations
• Fundraising, income generation or philanthropy
• Public health, wellbeing or social care
• Research, evaluation or data
• Public relationships, advocacy and communications
• Local government or public sector leadership

You do not need to be a musician to apply. We particularly welcome interest from people who are passionate about music education, reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and from those who may be new to board roles but bring relevant insight and experience.

We are also interested in hearing from applicants who may have the experience and/or capacity to take on a Co-Chair role in the future. This would be discussed separately following appointment.

Independence and governance

To maintain strong governance and meet Arts Council England expectations:

• No more than 25% of Board members will be drawn from organisations in receipt of commissioned Hub funding at any one time
• Commissioned delivery partners may attend meetings in their role as reporting officers, rather than as voting Board members

Time commitment

• Approximately 4–6 meetings per year
• A mix of online and in-person meetings
• Papers circulated in advance

The role is voluntary, but reasonable travel expenses can be reimbursed.

Online induction session

All shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a short online induction and briefing session to learn more about the Octagon Music Hub, the Strategic Board role and next steps.

📅 Wednesday 5 March

🕞 3.30–4.30pm (online)

Please note your availability for this session when applying.

How to apply

To express your interest, please:

• complete a short Board Skills Audit. The forms also asks for a brief statement outlining your background, what you would bring to the Board, and why you are interested in the role.

Deadline for applications: 1st March 2026

If you would like an informal conversation before applying, please contact Annette Burghes, Octagon Music Hub Manager (using the number or email above) who you can speak to directly and/or she can arrange a conversation with the Independent Chair, Claire Tudge.