EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – NON-EXECUTIVE BOARD DIRECTORS
You Can Sit With Us Ltd
ABN 90 652 512 680
About Us
You Can Sit With Me (YCSWM) is an evidence-based, peer-led program that fosters kindness, belonging and inclusion in Australian schools and communities. We are proud to have been recognised in the Australian Government’s Anti-Bullying Rapid Review as an example of effective Tier 1 primary prevention – a reflection of the rigour and impact of our work in building safe and inclusive school communities.
We have reached more than 1,000 schools and community groups across Australia, empowering children, parents and educators to create playgrounds and classrooms where every child feels safe, welcome and valued.
We are a registered health promotion charity and NFP organisation based in NSW, operating nationally. Our work sits at the intersection of education, child wellbeing, and public health- and our mission is simple: empowering children, parents and educators through inclusive, evidence-based and values-driven education, from the pavement to the playground to the classroom.
The Opportunity
YCSWM is seeking to appoint two non-executive (directors to its Board as part of a planned renewal of board composition aligned with our strategic growth objectives.
Non-executive directors are not involved in the day-to-day management of YCSWM. Their role is to provide independent oversight, strategic guidance, and governance leadership to the organisation – helping ensure that YCSWM remains mission-driven, financially sustainable, and accountable to the communities it serves.
These are non-executive, non-remunerated (voluntary) positions, and represent a meaningful opportunity to contribute your expertise to an organisation making a genuine difference in the lives of Australian children.
What We Are Looking For
We are seeking directors who bring one or more of the following to the board:
Clinical and Public Health Leadership
A registered psychologist, paediatrician, public health professional, or allied health practitioner with experience in child and adolescent wellbeing, mental health, or health promotion. This expertise will support our health promotion charity obligations and strengthen our engagement with NSW Health and Commonwealth health funders.
Fundraising, Philanthropy and Grants
Experience in NFP revenue generation, including cultivating relationships with philanthropic trusts, major donors, and government funding bodies such as NSW Health and Commonwealth DOHAC, and/or hands-on experience preparing and acquitting competitive grant applications. (Acquittal refers to the formal compliance process of demonstrating to funders that grant monies were spent in accordance with agreed conditions and that funded activities were delivered). Given the competitive nature of health promotion and education funding, this capability is a strategic priority for the board.
NSW School Sector Seniority
A former or current school principal, senior Department of Education official, or leader within the Catholic or independent school sectors. Understanding how schools actually operate- and how programs are adopted and embedded – is critical to the effectiveness of our work.
Lived Experience
We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring lived experience of bullying, social exclusion, disability, or school refusal – whether personally or as a parent or carer. Authentic voice and community perspective are deeply valued at YCSWM.
What All Directors Bring
Beyond specialist expertise, we are looking for people who are genuinely passionate about our mission and the children and communities we serve. All directors will be expected to bring- or be actively developing – a sound understanding of NFP governance, director duties, and the ACNC regulatory framework. AICD and other governance qualifications are highly valued, as is prior board experience, although strong sector expertise is equally welcomed.
We are looking for people who ask good questions, hold their views with an open mind, engage respectfully with different perspectives, and are willing to contribute beyond the boardroom – acting as an ambassador for YCSWM in their professional and community networks. Our mission travels far when the people around our table believe in it deeply and share it widely.
Our Board Culture
We are a small, committed and collegiate board. We value inquisitive minds, respectful challenge, and a genuine passion for our mission. We are actively working to ensure our board reflects the diversity of the communities we serve – including gender, cultural background, age, and lived experience.
Time Commitment
Directors are expected to attend approximately 5 board meetings per year held in Sydney/online, and to contribute to board committees and organisational events as required.
How to Apply
Please submit an Expression of Interest including:
- A brief covering letter (no more than two pages) outlining your interest in YCSWM and the skills and experience you would bring to the board
- Your current curriculum vitae;
- Your current Working With Children registration number
Applications should be addressed to the Chair and submitted to: terrie@youcansitwithme.net.au
Applications close: Friday 5 June 2026
Enquiries are warmly welcomed and may be directed to the Chair at the above email address.
YCSWM is committed to building a board that reflects the diversity of the children and communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from women, First Nations peoples, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
YCSWM holds Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.