Type on the line above then press the Enter/Return key to submit a new search query
Somerville House Foundation – Who we are, Our vision…
The Somerville House Foundation was established in 1984 by Principal, Reverend Samuel Seymour, and a group of passionate parents and Old Girls to enrich the educational journey of generations of Somerville House students. Committed to securing the future of Somerville House, the Foundation strives to foster a culture of philanthropy and warmth of spirit throughout our School community.
The Somerville House Foundation is the capital raising and fundraising body for Somerville House, operating as a separate company but key stakeholder of the School. As a tax-deductible fundraising vehicle, the Foundation raises and manages funds via appeals, events and initiatives to assist the School with current and future development priorities.
As the oldest foundation for a girls’ school in Australia and a critical partner to the School, you too could add to the Foundation’s rich history and further enhance its success and reputation for delivering incredible outcomes for Somerville House and our girls.
Foundation Board and Committee Structure
Celebrating the amazing milestone of 40 years in 2024, the Somerville House Foundation has truly benefitted from the expertise of its Directors and the role each has played in paying it forward, across every decade. As part of our succession planning, we are interested in how you could bring your skills, knowledge and experience to contribute at a Board or Committee level.
The Foundation operates as a company limited by guarantee and is registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission. We operate collaboratively with the School under the requirements of the Corporations Act, with a professional Board of Directors. Board members bring a diverse mix of skills and experience, and great passion for our cause.
Board
The Board governs the Foundation and provides strategic direction and activities, legal and financial accountability, and governance. Whilst strategic in approach for the future of Somerville House, Foundation Board Directors play a hands-on role delivering to its purpose.
Board Composition:
Principal of Somerville House
Permanent Director – Chair of the School Advisory Council
Six Elected Directors – including the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Foundation Board
Two Appointed Directors – nominated from the Somerville House Old Girls Association and the Parents & Friends Association
Committees
Board committees are formed to delve deeper into critical areas, providing in-depth analysis and expertise to help the Board make well-informed decisions and manage complex issues effectively. Committee Members play a hands-on role with their expertise and advisory.
Finance and Risk – oversees and further develops expert advisory in financial management and reporting, risk management, governance and compliance, ensuring robust independent advice, accuracy, and assurance.
Community Engagement – oversees and further develops relationships with the broad Somerville House community, enabling the deepening of partnerships and opportunities for philanthropy.
Nominations – oversees and advises the Board on matters relating to Board composition and governance (succession planning, skills matrix, director identification and selection), ensuring there is the right mix of skills, experience, and diversity to support the Foundation’s purpose.
OPPORTUNITIES - EXPIRING TERMS AND CURRENT VACANCIES
Board vacancies will occur at the expiration of Director terms whilst some Committees have opportunities now. We are seeking expressions of interest from members of the Somerville House community who may want to contribute now, or in the near future.
Board
Expiring terms: 2025 AGM x 3 Elected Directors; 2026 AGM x 1 Director
Committees
Finance and Risk: 2 to 3 x current vacancies
Community Engagement: 2 x current vacancies
Nominations: 1 x current vacancy; post 2025 AGM x 1 vacancy
HOW TO APPLY / SUBMIT AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Continue the legacy – pay it forward for Somerville girls now, and of the future! Bring your strategic and hands-on skills to the vibrant Somerville House Foundation Board and/or Committees to deliver long lasting value and impact to the School and students.
Application / Expression of Interest - a brief cover letter plus a CV / BIO / LinkedIn profile.
We would like to understand how your knowledge, skills and experience could align at a Board or Committee level. We do not expect you to list a specific Committee unless you have a clear desire to contribute to that area.
Apply via foundation@somerville.qld.edu.au
CLOSING DATE AND OTHER KEY MILESTONES
RELEVANT DOCUMENTS
Somerville House Foundation Constitution
Somerville House Foundation Board Code of Conduct
Somerville House Foundation Board Charter