Introduction from our Chair of Trustees

While life gradually returned to normal in 2022, many of the challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic are ever present. This has been further exacerbated by a cost of living crisis that is putting huge pressure on families and our communities and a greater burden on our schools. However, despite these difficulties, we continue to ensure our students, especially our most vulnerable young people, get the support they need and deserve.

Knowing that we have continued to deliver on our moral purpose as educators during the hardest of times makes me incredibly proud. In spite of everything that has been thrown in the way of young peoples’ progress over the last three years, our students are thriving, in large part thanks to the dedication and hard work of our incredible staff.

I am equally proud of the ‘Big Moves’ we are striving to make: developing high performing schools, building staff talent, supporting local communities, decarbonising our estate and making a meaningful difference to the system. All this hard work is underpinned by brave and inspirational leadership, effective financial management and strong governance.

If 2022 has taught me anything, it has taught me to be hopeful. While our annual report is a fantastic demonstration of how our schools have emerged stronger from the pandemic, it is also a joyful celebration of all that our family of schools has achieved.

I hope you enjoy reading it and here’s to an even brighter future.

Very best wishes,

Anne Haigh