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The Role of the Chairperson in a Charity Managed Early Years & Childcare Setting

  • Writer: Sally Gridley
    Sally Gridley
  • 5 days ago
  • 4 min read

A guide for unincorporated organisations in England and Wales


Running an early years or childcare setting as a charity is both rewarding and demanding. At the heart of this work sits the chairperson, a pivotal figure who helps steer the organisation, support its people, and ensure that children and families receive the high‑quality provision they deserve.


If you’re a chairperson, a trustee stepping into the role, or someone considering taking it on, understanding the responsibilities is essential. This blog breaks down what the role really involves for settings in England and Wales, registered with the Charity Commission, and operating as unincorporated associations.


Group of people in a bright office discuss around a table; one person stands, holding a tablet. Laptops, coffee cups, and snacks are visible.

What Makes the Chairperson’s Role Unique?

While all trustees share collective responsibility, the chairperson has additional duties that shape the charity’s direction and culture. Think of the chair as the anchor and facilitator, the person who ensures the board works effectively, decisions are sound, and the charity stays true to its purpose.


In your settings, this role is even more significant because the organisation is responsible for safeguarding children, meeting regulatory requirements, and supporting staff in a complex, highly regulated environment.


Key Responsibilities of the Chairperson


1. Leading the Board of Trustees

The chairperson ensures the board functions smoothly and stays focused on the charity’s aims.


This includes:


  • Setting agendas that prioritise strategic issues

  • Ensuring meetings are well‑run, inclusive, and purposeful

  • Encouraging balanced discussion and constructive challenge

  • Supporting trustees to understand their legal duties


A strong chair helps trustees feel confident, informed, and able to contribute meaningfully.


For support with understanding the role of the committee in general, individual officers roles and the responsibilities of trustees register your interest for the next Trustee Roles and Responsibilities workshop.


2. Ensuring Good Governance

Charities in England and Wales must comply with Charity Commission guidance, including the essential CC3: The Essential Trustee.


The chairperson plays a key role in:



For early years settings, this also means ensuring compliance with Ofsted (England) or Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) requirements.


3. Acting as a Critical Link Between Trustees and Staff

In many early years charities, the manager of the setting is the most senior paid staff member.


The chairperson often acts as their line manager, which includes:



This relationship is central to the smooth running of the setting.


4. Championing the Charity’s Vision and Values

The chairperson helps keep the charity focused on its purpose: delivering high‑quality early education and childcare that benefits children and families.


This involves:


  • Promoting the setting within the community

  • Ensuring decisions align with the charity’s mission

  • Encouraging a culture of inclusivity, respect, and continuous improvement


A good chairperson is both a guardian of the charity’s ethos and an advocate for its future.


5. Supporting Financial Oversight

While the treasurer leads on financial matters, the chairperson ensures the board collectively:



For unincorporated organisations, where trustees may be personally liable, this oversight is especially important.


6. Handling Difficult Situations with Confidence

Early years settings face challenges—from staffing shortages to safeguarding concerns.


The chairperson often plays a key role in:


  • Supporting the manager through crises

  • Leading on complaints or disciplinary matters (where appropriate)

  • Ensuring the board responds proportionately and lawfully


Calm, fair leadership makes a huge difference.


What Makes a Great Chairperson?

While every chair brings their own style, the most effective tend to be:


  • Clear communicators

  • Good listeners

  • Organised and reliable

  • Confident but not domineering

  • Committed to the charity’s purpose

  • Able to balance support with accountability


They create an environment where trustees feel valued and staff feel supported.


The Legal Framework You Need to Know

For charity‑managed early years settings in England and Wales, the chairperson should be familiar with:


Charity Law

  • Charity Commission guidance (especially CC3)

  • The charity’s governing document

  • Trustee responsibilities around reporting, finance, and decision‑making


Early Years Regulation

  • Ofsted’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements (England)

  • Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) standards (Wales)

  • Safeguarding legislation and local safeguarding partnership procedures


Employment and HR Basics

Even in unincorporated charities, trustees are employers. The chairperson often leads on:

  • Recruitment

  • Staff management

  • Policies and procedures

  • Handling grievances or capability issues


Final Thoughts

A strong chairperson doesn’t just run meetings—they help shape the culture, stability, and long‑term success of the setting. They ensure the charity is well‑governed, legally compliant, and focused on delivering the best possible outcomes for children.


In early years and childcare, where the work is deeply human and the stakes are high, this leadership is invaluable.


For ongoing support in your charity managed setting why not become a member of The Leadership Collective and get 1:1 advice as and when you need it.

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