Become a Young Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people 

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Young Trustee. 

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year. 

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Young Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.  

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education.

Deadline: 11pm, Sunday 18 January 2026.

Why join as a Young Trustee? 

• Play an important role in guiding a national charity at a critical time for civic education. 

• Bring your perspective as a young person to Board discussions – your lived experience matters. 

• Gain governance experience, develop leadership skills, and learn how charities operate. 

• Receive full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support, including a mentor trustee. 

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society. 

What We Are Looking For 

We welcome applications from young people aged 18–25 who are passionate about active citizenship and youth voice. You do not need prior board experience – training and support will be provided. We’re looking for potential, and learning as you go is part of the role. If you have experience or interest in any of the following areas, that’s great (but not essential): 

• Citizenship education or youth engagement 

• Marketing, communications, or influencing 

• Business growth and partnerships 

• Digital innovation or technology 

• Fundraising and income generation  

We also welcome diverse experiences, including leadership, public service, law, finance, policy, or community involvement. 

Role Requirements 

Time commitment 

• Board meetings: 4 times per year, usually weekday evenings in person near St Paul’s, London.  

• Additional involvement: Monthly online finance updates and one annual Away Day to review strategy and impact. 

• Overall: Around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings 

Term and structure 

• Initial term of one year, with potential renewal 

• Day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, while trustees remain legally accountable for governance and compliance 

Key responsibilities 

• Contribute to shaping Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitoring performance 

• Help ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document (training provided) 

• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity 

• Support effective use of resources and long-term sustainability 

• Work with fellow trustees to advise and support the CEO 

• Act as an ambassador for Young Citizens, promoting our mission and building connections 

How to Apply 

Please send your CV and a one-page personal statement (explaining why you want to be a Young Trustee and how your skills align with the role) via the CharityJob application link to [email protected].