Are you passionate about your community? Do you want to unlock the potential of local people and create opportunities for them? 

By joining a WEA Local Advisory Panel (LAP), you can play a critical role in helping the largest adult education charity in the UK understand local needs and create impactful opportunities. 

What will you be doing? 

As an LAP volunteer, you will help shape adult education by understanding and responding to the needs of your community. You'll build strong community links, promote the work and interests of WEA, influence local and regional strategies, and engage stakeholders through annual meetings. 

Putting power in the hands of local people 

What are we looking for? 

We seek individuals who are passionate about the success of their local community and the importance of education. We welcome diverse perspectives from various industries, backgrounds, and cultures. Prior experience with WEA learning is valued, but not essential. Experience in education, the voluntary or public sector, business, fundraising, marketing, finance, law, HR, or learning & development is a plus. We need collaborative individuals who can work effectively within a team and are interested in forging meaningful connections with community organizations, employers, and local leaders. 

Each LAP takes collective responsibility for their actions in line with their latest Terms of Reference as approved by the Board of Trustees, WEA Regulations and Policies. LAP members play a vital role in our local governance to: 

1. Build strong community links and networks within the region to promote the work and interests of WEA. 

2. Evidence and act in line with WEA plans and policies on local views and issues, giving due regard to the views and needs of learners, Association Members, supporters, volunteers, funders, and other stakeholders. 

3. Play an active role in helping WEA to shape and influence local and regional strategies which may impact upon WEA’s funding and/or service delivery. 

4. Help facilitate the convening of an annual meeting of Association Members and stakeholders within the region, the purpose of which is to promote engagement with WEA activities within the region, and to advance WEA’s mission and values.