Our People Stories

Since joining the Trust in September 2024, I’ve really felt the impact of working within a wider family of schools. What stands out most is the spirit of Ubuntu, the sense that we’re stronger together, and that what happens in one school matters to all of us. There’s a real tangible feeling of mutual support and shared ambition.

For instance, we’ve worked closely with the Trust on two major applications, one for a school based nursery and another for a new SLD unit. It’s been encouraging to know we’re not tackling these things alone. At our Lewisham Headteacher meetings, the collaboration is practical and meaningful. A good example would be our joint adoption of CUSP across Art, DT, History and Geography. It’s not just about consistency, but shared learning and collective improvement.

We’ve also joined the MAT’s Deepening Reading project with the EEF, and that’s helped us sharpen our approach to reading for depth and understanding. There’s been a strong focus on inclusion too, shared CPD on OT recommendations has really helped us make sure no child is left behind. And when our DSIP review visited, it reflected that sense of shared drive for excellence, the right mix of support and challenge.

There have been some more day to day things too, but no less valuable. A Trust led attendance meeting validated the work we were already doing. Our safeguarding audit confirmed we’re in a strong place. Even headteacher appraisal felt robust and purposeful. Things like improved photocopying provision, recruitment support via TES, and even HR policies like the Menopause policy have all come from working within the MAT.

I’d also say the Trust genuinely looks after its leaders. When I returned from sabbatical, I was warmly welcomed back. Mark prayed with me, which was incredibly thoughtful, and all the heads received a bottle of bubbly as a thank you for their work that term. It might seem small, but it says a lot. There’s a balance here, strategic leadership is strong, but local autonomy is respected. I think that’s a key strength.