Our People Stories

I see my role as one of walking alongside our schools, while always trying to look further down the track to anticipate both opportunity and risk. I spend time in each setting, understanding its context, listening carefully, and offering an additional aspect of strategic leadership, with the aim to reach a mutually common goal. No two schools are the same, and I take seriously the responsibility of understanding each school’s context, so that we can work alongside our schools to determine strategic development. Whether it is through direct conversations with leaders (at all levels of school life), joining a governing body meeting, or simply being present in school life, I try to make myself available and accessible, to support meaningful school improvement.

At times, part of my role means offering challenge. This comes from a place of wanting the very best for our children and school communities, within what is currently a very complex educational landscape. I work hard to create a climate in which leaders feel both trusted and held to account, knowing that strong support and constructive questioning are not in opposition. I also recognise my role in developing people, helping leaders to grow in confidence, develop their own style, and draw on the wider strength of the Trust. Where needed, I bring in others to share expertise, pedagogy and relevant educational research, because none of us have all the answers on our own.

One of the things I value most is the distinctiveness of each of our schools. Everyone brings something different to our Trust; different strengths, experiences and ways of working. Rather than that being a barrier, I see it as a strength. Over time, this has enabled our schools to grow and learn from each other and on many occasions, this has developed further school improvement. I actively work to create space for leaders to share, reflect and think together, so that we are constantly learning from one another. When we connect schools well, we build a culture where innovation, collaboration and professional generosity flourish. I have the highest of expectations from our schools but make it my business to fully understand any potential barrier that may exist to prevent future success. This is a strategy that has brought success to our Trust to date. Our leaders feel that they contribute well to the success of the wider organisation, and this has enabled sustained improvement.

I enjoy my role because of the people I work with; people who are passionate, talented and deeply committed to their communities. I find energy in seeing what can be achieved when we bring people together behind a shared purpose. I look ahead with real optimism, believing that we can have full control of the narrative that we write. The opportunities we have to grow, reshape, improve and lead are both exciting and humbling, and I feel proud to be part of that journey.