learning. They are the heart of their communitiesanchors of hope and hubs of support.
Inthisedition
Spotlight on Society
with a supporting sentence of 'Boosting civic action to empower our communities to thrive'
Turbo Booster One: Students
Boosting education for students in our schools.
Turbo Booster Two: Staff
Boosting careers to be the best organisation to work and grow.
Turbo Booster Four: Sustainability
Boosting environmental action for the benefit of future generations
Turbo Booster Five: System
Boosting education for all children no matter where they go to school.
October Spotlight: Society
This month's bulletin shines a spotlight on Society, a key pillar of our new 2025-2030 strategy, 'Co-creating Brighter Futures for All' This new strategy is our game plan for the exciting next chapter at Windsor Academy Trust, building proudly on the strong foundations we have laid together since 2011
At the heart of everything we do is our unwavering moral purpose: to unlock the academic and personal potential of every single child in our care. To help us achieve this, our strategy introduces five key ‘Turbo Boosters’ that will focus our energy and drive our success
This month, we are focusing on Turbo Booster 3: Society boosting civic action to empower our communities to thrive.
Our Civic Duty
As Margaret J Wheatley so powerfully said, "There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about" This belief is central to our work We see education as a force for the greater public good, and we know that our schools and students flourish when their communities thrive.
A key part of this is embracing our role as an "anchor institution" This means our schools act as stable, locally-rooted organisations that are deeply committed to the well-being of the community. We actively use our resources - our people, our facilities, and our knowledge - to:
Support local organisations through partnerships and shared expertise
Address community needs, from health and employment to social challenges.
Bring people together to build lasting relationships and a stronger community spirit
Create a partnership where our schools and communities are interdependent, helping each other to thrive
We see it as our civic duty to help co-create a brighter future for everyone We are already building on incredible work across our schools, from our partnerships in health and the launch of the Brighter Smiles supervised toothbrushing programme, to the establishment of our first community hubs Our new strategy is about being even more intentional in building on these successes to deliver a greater impact for our children and communities
Our Vision: What We'll Achieve by 2030
Our strategy sets out clear and ambitious goals. By 2030, through our collective focus on 'Society', we will have:
A culture of civic engagement in our schools, with staff, students, and community leaders acting as recognised civic champions
Stronger family engagement with parents and carers, positively impacting student attendance, inclusion, and engagement
A thriving community hub in each learning community, providing a front door to public services and facilities
A ‘team around the child’ civic provision that supports and enhances health equality, SEND/inclusion, and early years development.
Become a recognised system leader in education and health, helping to drive the national agenda and shape policy
The upcoming articles will bring this vision for Society to life, sharing more on our new Schools and Health framework, updates on our community hubs, and the brilliant work being done to strengthen family engagement across the Trust. This is a team effort between our staff and community partners, and by working together, we can make a huge and positive difference for all
Co-creating Healthy Futures: A Framework for Schools and Health
It’s incredibly exciting to share a major piece of work that sits at the very heart of our civic mission within Society: the ‘Co-creating Healthy Futures: A Framework for Schools and Health’
This framework is the result of an exciting and collaborative journey, and it starts with a simple, powerful belief: a child’s health and their education are completely intertwined We know that for our children to thrive and reach their full potential, we need to look after their wellbeing holistically
Our 'Why'
For too long, schools and health services have served the same communities but have often worked in parallel rather than in true partnership. We see the same children and families, as well as face the same challenges, yet the systems can feel disconnected. We wanted to change this, and conversations with fellow leaders from NHS and education sectors confirmed a real appetite to tackle this challenge together
In January and April of this year, We convened with leaders from seven NHS trusts, NHS Confederation, NHS Employers, and nine school trusts alongside the Confederation of School Trusts to envision a healthier and more equitable future for young people.
After deep discussion, and collaboration it was the coalition's goal to co-create a practical guide - a blueprint - to help bridge that gap The group was united in its belief that by working together, schools and NHS partnerships can be a powerful force for public good, tackling health inequalities and ensuring every child gets the best possible start in life. This isn't about just adding another task to busy schedules; it's about working smarter, aligning our efforts to make a much deeper and more meaningful impact on our mutual agenda’s A challenge that can be tackled by coming together
Our Collaborative Journey
This framework is a testament to the power of collaboration It has been co-created with a huge range of partners from across the education and health sectors. Their expertise and shared commitment have been invaluable in shaping a document that is both ambitious and practical. It is truly a shared piece of work designed to stimulate dialogue and, most importantly, inspire action The framework is intended to:
Serve as a practical resource for other trusts seeking to foster partnerships
Highlight effective strategies for integrating health services in educational settings. Influence policy discussions to support the development of cross-sector initiatives.
Inside, you will find practical guidance and case studies focused on three key areas for collaboration:
1 Preventing health issues in young people
2.Bringing neighbourhood health services onto school sites.
3.Building the future NHS workforce.
Our Launch Plans
Dawn Haywood and Claire Gething have shared this work on a national stage Our team presented the framework at the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) Annual Conference, sharing our journey and learnings with school trust leaders from across the country
We will be holding an official launch event at Portcullis House in Westminster in November, where we will be joined by Education Minister, Olivia Bailey and other guests across education and health. The event will offer a fantastic opportunity to place this vital work at the forefront of the national conversation
Our Call to Action
This framework is a ‘call to action’ for all of us We encourage you to take a look and consider how its principles can support the children and families in your school. We are truly optimistic about what we can achieve when we place health and wellbeing at the centre of the communities we serve.
ReadtheFramework here
Empowering Our Communities: The Vital Role of our Local Community Committees
A key part of bringing our 'Society' Turbo Booster to life is strengthening the connection between our schools and the communities they serve. Driving this work on the ground are our new Local Community Committees (LCCs), who will play a pivotal role in helping us listen, understand, and act together
The Community Remit: A Bridge to Our Neighbourhoods
We've reimagined our approach to local governance, and a core part of the LCC's new remit is specifically focused on 'Community' Their primary role is to support and strengthen relationships, deepening our collective understanding of each school's local context and community needs.
Our LCCs are our local experts and critical friends. Through collaborative dialogue, representatives will bring invaluable local knowledge and insight, helping us to identify shared priorities and co-create solutions that are genuinely beneficial for both our students and the wider community
Our Civic Lead Network and Co-created Action Plans
To ensure this work is embedded in every school, we have established a network of Civic Leads These dedicated staff members are the driving force behind civic action in their schools They will be supported centrally by our Head of Community Development and will connect through our Civic Professional Learning Community to share best practices and foster collaboration across the Trust.
A cornerstone of this new approach is the Civic Action Plan Each Civic Lead will draft a simple plan, drawing on their understanding of the school and community needs This is where the partnership with the LCC becomes so important The plan will be shared with the LCC, whose members - our parent representatives and civic partners - will use their unique local insight to shape, refine, and enrich it This ensures our plans are not just for the community, but created with the community.
Training and Empowering for Impact
To support this vital work, we recently held our first LCC training session. We explored our shared strategic vision and the principles behind our commitment to being a civic 'anchor institution' We also clarified the collaborative roles and responsibilities that will make this partnership a success:
Civic Leads will develop, coordinate, and implement the Civic Action Plan
LCC Representatives will shape the plan with local insight, support its delivery, and provide constructive challenge
The LCC Chair will lead the committee, facilitating effective and inclusive discussions.
Head of Community Development will provide strategic support, guidance, and oversight from the central team
By working together in this structured, collaborative way, we are empowering our schools and communities to thrive and it is a great example of how we are 'co-creating brighter futures for all'
Windsor Olympus Academy Welcomes International Delegation for Prestigious Nike and Youth Sport Trust Programme
Windsor Olympus Academy opened its doors on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, to host an international delegation of award-winning Physical Education teachers, leaders and researchers from China. The visit was a key part of the prestigious Nike Active Schools Innovation Award, an initiative designed to transform the culture of sport in schools and share global best practices
The event, facilitated in the UK by the Youth Sport Trust International, provided a vibrant exchange of professional practice and culture. The delegation of 17 teachers, accompanied by representatives from Nike and the Youth Sport Trust, observed a Year 7 PE lesson and engaged in deep-dive discussions with staff and students Topics included Windsor Olympus Academy’s innovative PE curriculum, strategies for encouraging girls' participation in sport, and the school’s holistic approach to student health and wellbeing and its deep commitment to community development
The visit concluded with the delegation experiencing Windsor Academy Trust's unique 'family dining' model, sharing lunch with students and staff in a further showcase of the school's inclusive community culture
Sally-Jo Wilkinson, Headteacher at Windsor Olympus Academy, said: “It was an absolute honour to welcome our colleagues from China. We take immense pride in our PE and school sport provision, and to share that with an international audience was a powerful experience for our staff and students alike. The energy and enthusiasm was incredible, and our students were so engaged. This has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate different cultures and our shared passion for helping young people from all backgrounds lead active, healthy lives ”
The visit is a clear reflection of Windsor Academy Trust's strategic commitment to 'Civic Leadership', which aims to ensure all children thrive by strengthening the communities the Trust serves. By acting as a community anchor, the Trust seeks to build lasting partnerships that create social value beyond the school gates
Steve Lanckham, a senior leader at Windsor Academy Trust, who plays a key role in the Trust's partnership with the Youth Sport trust commented on the long-term vision: “This event is about more than a single day; it’s about planting seeds for future collaboration. We are exploring legacy opportunities with the Youth Sport Trust and Nike, including building lasting links with schools in China to foster ongoing global citizenship for our students. This is a powerful opportunity to learn from each other and build a legacy of partnership.”
Van Willerton, Windsor Academy Trust’s Head of Community Development said: “this visit aligns perfectly with our mission to act as a civic anchor, using our resources and community partnerships to create a positive impact on both an international and neighbourhood level.”
The Nike Active Schools Innovation Award provides a unique international learning journey for its winners, enabling them to apply new insights to their own teaching and research, and share China's experience with international counterparts Windsor Olympus Academy was recommended by the Youth Sport Trust as an exemplar school for its comprehensive PE programme and commitment to deep rooted community-orientated development work
Launching ‘Brighter Smiles’ to Boost Children’s Oral Health
We’re delighted to announce the launch of Brighter Smiles, a new supervised toothbrushing campaign designed to improve the oral health of our youngest learners This will be rolled out in phases across our family of primary schools, beginning this autumn. This exciting initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust and with support from the WAT Community Foundation.
Why Brighter Smiles?
Good oral health is the foundation of good overall health. However, tooth decay is the most common reason for hospital admissions among young children and was responsible for over 60,000 missed school days in 2024 alone. This is a largely preventable issue that can affect a child's ability to eat, sleep, socialise, and learn
The Brighter Smiles campaign directly addresses this challenge Our goal is to build a foundation for lifelong oral health, reduce pain and disruption for our children, and decrease school absenteeism due to dental problems
A Phased Roll-out for Maximum Impact
To ensure a successful and well-supported launch, 'Brighter Smiles' is being introduced through a carefully planned phased roll-out
The model has already been successfully established at Milton Primary Academy, which has pioneered this work within our Trust as Phase 1 of the programme
We are excited to now launch Phase 2 Throughout Autumn Term 1, our focus will be on engaging with parents and carers at the participating schools to explain the campaign's aims The daily supervised toothbrushing sessions will then officially launch in Autumn Term 2 at the following schools:
Greenways Primary Academy
Colley Lane Primary Academy
Manor Way Primary Academy
Tenterfields Primary Academy
Looking ahead, we are working closely with Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust who will roll out Phase 3, which will see the programme extended to Goldsmith Primary Academy and Rivers Primary Academy in the future and complete the plan to deliver all of our primary schools
How the Campaign Works
The Brighter Smiles campaign is a simple but effective programme for 3-5 year olds taking place in our nurseries and schools
In-School Brushing: Our wonderful school staff have been trained by the NHS Oral Health Improvement team to lead a supervised toothbrushing session once every school day
Support at Home: To support brushing at home, every child will receive a Brighter Smiles Home Pack This includes a toothbrush, a 1450ppm fluoride toothpaste, and a leaflet packed with top tips for families The leaflet includes advice on everything from how much toothpaste to use to being "Sugar Smart" by using the NHS Food Scanner App
We are thrilled to see this project come to life. The 'Brighter Smiles' campaign is a perfect example of our civic leadership in action. It's a practical, targeted response to a significant health inequality affecting our youngest children By working in close partnership with the NHS and empowering our families with the tools and knowledge to build healthy habits, we can make a real, lasting difference to children’s wellbeing and their readiness to learn When our communities are healthier, our children thrive, and that is our ultimate goal.
We are incredibly excited to work alongside our families and our NHS partners as we launch at Greenways, Colley Lane, Manor Way, and Tenterfields, helping our children develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime
Nourishing Our Communities: A New Partnership with FoodCycle
We’re delighted to announce an exciting new partnership that brings our civic mission to life through the simple power of a shared meal
Windsor Academy Trust is joining forces with the fantastic national charity FoodCycle to launch weekly, afterschool community meals for students and their families We are in discussion regarding the ‘art of the possible’ and aim to begin at Windsor Olympus Academy and Goldsmith Primary Academy, with the possibility of expanding further in the future
For over 16 years, FoodCycle has been turning surplus food into healthy, balanced meals, creating welcoming spaces that reduce hunger and loneliness across the country. They are now in schools across London and the West Midlands, and we are thrilled to be collaborating and making plans
This partnership will showcase our civic endeavors as part of Turbo Booster 3: Society strategy It supports our ambition for our schools to be rooted in our communities - using our facilities to host a service that directly responds to community needs like food insecurity and social isolation. By opening our doors, we are enhancing family engagement and building stronger, more resilient communities
The impact of this model is clear In existing projects, FoodCycle has found that:
75% of families feel more connected to their child's school.
60% of attendees report feeling less lonely.
85% of parents say their child has tried new foods
This is what co-creating brighter futures looks like on the ground: stronger connections, improved wellbeing, and families spending more quality time together.
We are delighted to be embarking on this new partnership FoodCycle will provide a fully managed service, bringing their expertise, a dedicated staff member, volunteers, and the food itself Our role is to provide a welcoming space in our dining halls and kitchens and work alongside them to embed the service into the heart of our school communities
We are incredibly excited to begin making plans with FoodCycle. We know our partnership will flourish and have a positive impact on our students and their families
Working Together for a Healthier Future in Newcastle-under-Lyme
Co-creating Pathways to Employment in Dudley
One of the most powerful ways we can act as a civic anchor is by joining forces with other key institutions to tackle local challenges together We are thrilled to share an update on our partnership with The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust and Dudley Council through the "I CAN Dudley" programme
"I CAN Dudley" is a fantastic example of civic collaboration, created to strengthen the local workforce by offering residents accessible pathways into new careers, particularly in healthcare and education
Our Role in the 'Into Employment' Initiative
A key part of this work is the 'Into Employment' programme, which identifies local people who are keen to find work and equips them with the skills and confidence they need to apply for entry-level roles. Windsor Academy Trust is playing an active role in supporting this. For relevant vacancies in our Dudley schools, we have committed to offering interview to any 'Into Employment' candidate who meets the essential criteria for the role
This is about opening doors and removing barriers for skilled-up, local candidates to showcase their potential. Our commitment to appointing the very best person for every job remains absolute, and this partnership helps us connect with a diverse, local talent pool that strengthens our whole community.
Building Bridges Through Our LCC Network
A partnership like this is only as strong as the people driving it We are delighted to be working closely with Rachel Pearce, Workforce Development Business Partner at NHS Dudley What makes this collaboration even more powerful is that we have recently welcomed Rachel as the new LCC Representative for Health at Kingswinford Academy.
Speaking about the collaboration, Rachel said: Working with the Trust and joining the LCC at Kingswinford Academy is a great opportunity We aim to bridge the gap between education and healthcare, which will help us build pathways from the classroom into careers within the NHS and Education for both adults and young people It’s a win-win for students, their families, and the wider Dudley community "
Rachel’s dual role creates a fantastic link between our school community and one of the largest employers in the borough. It opens up exciting possibilities for deeper collaboration, connecting the work of the LCC directly with potential opportunities at Russell’s Hall Hospital and helping us align our efforts to support young people and their families
This is a great example of what we mean by 'boosting civic action to empower our communities to thrive'. By working together, we are creating tangible opportunities and helping to co-create brighter futures for all.
Strengthening Family Engagement
Building strong partnerships with our families is a cornerstone of our mission to unlock potential, and this halfterm, we're celebrating the incredible progress being made across our trust.
National Recognition for Parental Engagement
We’re incredibly proud to announce that two of our primary schools have received national recognition at the 2025 Edurio Awards for their outstanding work with families This is a huge achievement, celebrating the topperforming schools in the country based on national survey data from the 2024/25 academic year. Huge congratulations to:
Tenterfields Primary Academy, which won the prestigious National Parent Choice Award
Goldsmith Primary Academy, which won both the National and Regional Listening & Acting Award for Parental Feedback
These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the school teams in building relational trust and ensuring parents feel valued, heard, and respected Well done to everyone involved!
Shaping the National Conversation
Our trust’s commitment to parental engagement is also being recognised at a national level. Following the success of our trust-wide strategies, we were invited by the Department for Education (DfE) to contribute a case study on our approach, which will be used to help inform and shape best practice across the sector
Further to this, our CEO, Dawn Haywood, and Executive Leaders, Claire Gething, have been invited to join the DfE's new Parental Engagement Advisory Board. This work aligns with our commitment to system leadership sharing what works to benefit all children, no matter where they go to school.
Readthetoolkit here
Our Resources and Next Steps
To support all our schools in this vital area, we launched the Parental Engagement Resource Toolkit earlier this year This toolkit provides research-based frameworks and practical guidance to help review and enhance engagement strategies. We encourage all school leaders to continue using the self-evaluation tool within it to identify glows and grows
This toolkit represents the first phase of our work This academic year, we are building on this by developing a comprehensive Family Engagement Set Play This will provide a codified, trust-wide approach to ensure we are consistently and effectively partnering with all our families to help every child thrive.
A Home from Home: Introducing the Goldsmith Aspirations Hub
At its heart is a simple but powerful idea: to create a "Home from Home" – a welcoming place where our children, parents, and the wider community can connect, grow, and thrive together
Our 'Why': The Best Start in Life
The hub is designed to give children in the Goldsmith and Rivers communities the very best start in life, while also enhancing the lives of their families by fostering aspiration, wellbeing, and social mobility. Situated in a community facing significant challenges, including high levels of deprivation , the hub allows Goldsmith to act as a true community anchor, addressing barriers that exist beyond the school gates and building a healthier, more resilient community
Our key priorities are clear:
Raising aspirations through career inspiration and employment opportunities
Strengthening family-school connections to support children's engagement and wellbeing
Providing early intervention to ensure children and families get the right support at the right time.
Reducing social isolation by offering a welcoming space where people can connect and build confidence.
Partnership in Action
This vision is being co-created with our committed partners, including Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, Walsall Council’s Public Health team and Walsall Family Hub By working collaboratively, we are bringing essential support directly to the community, making it easier for families to access the services they need. Some of the fantastic initiatives include on-site NHS nurse clinics , Public Health-led workshops for parents on topics like diet and mental health , Stay & Play sessions, and partnerships with local family hubs
This collaborative approach has led to a range of fantastic initiatives. Here is a snapshot of what this partnership looks like in practice at Goldsmith:
Focus Area
Parent & Family Support
Hosting parent workshops on health and wellbeing with our NHS partners.
Running 'Stay and Play' sessions to support parents and reduce social isolation, in partnership with Walsall Council and local Family Hubs
Direct Health Services
Providing a base for the NHS to run vaccination clinics, making it easier for families to access essential services
Offering targeted support sessions led by the NHS School Nursing Team on topics like mental health, healthy lifestyles, and emotional wellbeing
Healthy Lifestyles
Promoting healthy eating through the NHS 'Henry' programme and partnerships with local businesses like Tesco to provide healthy snacks
Staff & Pupil Development
Co-designing youth development programmes with partner schools to raise aspirations and build resilience
Building our own staff's capacity through CPD delivered by NHS and Public Health experts
This is a wonderful example of how, by opening our doors and working together, we can break down barriers and create a thriving community where every single individual has the tools and support they need to succeed
The Beating Heart of Our School: The Olympus Community Hub
As Headteacher, I am incredibly proud of everything we do at Windsor Olympus Academy, but nothing embodies our spirit more than our Community Hub
Since we opened our doors in September 2023, the Hub has been the bridge connecting our school with our wonderfully diverse community, where over 40 languages are spoken. It has been absolutely integral to our success, ensuring every family feels heard, supported, and included.
What makes our Hub so special is that it is led by our community, for our community In close partnership with the brilliant Newbigin Community Trust, our dedicated parent and community leaders have created a true 'home from home' It’s a safe space offering everything from translation and ESOL classes to practical advocacy and support on housing, finance, and legal matters
The impact has been transformational We’ve seen parental engagement soar, and we know that when families feel supported, their children thrive in school As one parent so powerfully shared: "The Community Hub has been a lifeline for me and my family As a non-English speaker, I struggled to communicate with the school, but the hub provided translation support and helped me feel included in my child's education."
This sense of connection extends to our fantastic Eco Hub, an initiative that fosters environmental responsibility while strengthening community ties. Here, students, families, and community mentors work together on sustainable projects like our composting and no-dig gardening beds, while also finding a moment of peace in our dedicated wellbeing space
We were thrilled and immensely proud that this work received national recognition with a Silver Award for School or College Partnership of the Year in this year's Pearson National Teaching Awards It is a powerful affirmation of our core purpose, 'Thriving Together', and a wonderful celebration of our deep-rooted partnership with Newbigin Community Trust This award is a testament to our dedicated staff, our wonderful students, and our partners, who all share our vision of unlocking the academic and personal potential of every child
The Community Hub is the beating heart of our school. It proves that when a school truly opens its doors and empowers its community, incredible things can happen. I couldn't be prouder of what we are all building together.
Warmly,
Sally-Jo Wilkinson, Head Teacher, Windsor Olympus Academy
Great Wyrley Community Hub: A Place for Connection, Support and Opportunity
Our GWA team are delighted to share details of another project that brings our civic mission to life: the Great Wyrley Academy Community Hub.
This is another initiative that embodies our vision for our schools to be true anchor institutions, using our resources to support the wellbeing and resilience of the wider Great Wyrley and Cheslyn Hay community
Our Vision: A Hub at the Heart of the Community
Our co-created plan aims to transform an underutilised old caretaker's building on the Great Wyrley Academy site into a vibrant, multi-purpose Community Hub This space will be a ‘one-stop shop’ where families can access joined-up, place-based support, guided by ongoing community consultation
The Hub will be a welcoming place for residents to connect and will host a range of services designed to meet local needs, including:
Health and Wellbeing Support: Drop-in sessions, workshops, and mental health support from local NHS health partners in a safe and neutral space.
Volunteering and Skills Development: A focal point for social action, offering structured volunteering roles for students and local residents to develop new skills
Community Cohesion: A venue for parent workshops, play and stay sessions, and other events that bring
The Community Fridge: A Hub for Food and Friendship
A flagship initiative of the Hub will be the Community Fridge. Through a formal partnership with the fabulous local charity 'Helping Hearts Food Bank - Great Wyrley & Cheslyn Hay', we will tackle food insecurity and reduce food waste
Unlike a traditional food bank, the Fridge will operate on a surplus food model, making nutritious food available to anyone in the community in a dignified and accessible way. This partnership is vital, as it provides 'Helping Hearts' with a much-needed physical base, while their expertise and deep community trust are instrumental to the project's success More than just a food service, this will be a welcoming space for people to connect, share, and support one another
The GWA Civic team have already secured support from the Co-op Local Community Fund, and are waiting to hear the outcome of a significant application for capital investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which will help convert the old garage into the Fridge
This project is about serving as a catalyst and a partner It has been co-created from the ground up with a wide range of local organisations, including Support Staffordshire, South Staffordshire Family Hub, and our NHS partners, to build an interconnected support system.
By leveraging our physical assets and our position of trust, we are creating a sustainable, community-led resource that will invest in the long-term health and resilience of the Great Wyrley community for years to come
Joining the Cradle to Career Partnership: Building a System of Support for Our Children
One of the most profound questions we can ask as educators is: how can we ensure every single child has the support they need to thrive, from their earliest years right through to adulthood?
We know that our schools are vital, and we cannot do it alone. Children's lives are shaped by a whole system of support—from health and social care to their experiences at home When that system is fragmented, children can fall through the gaps That’s why we taking a significant step to address this by joining the Cradle to Career Partnership, a national network led by The Reach Foundation
This partnership will initially involve clusters of schools leading our Community Hub developments: Cheslyn Hay Academy and Great Wyrley Academy, Goldsmith Primary Academy and Rivers Primary Academy, and Windsor Olympus Academy
Why This, Why Now?
The Cradle to Career approach recognises that for too many children, the journey through education and local services can feel disconnected Key transitions between school phases can be challenging, relationships with key adults can be inconsistent, and essential services often operate in silos
This initiative is about changing that. It’s a movement to build powerful, local partnerships that create a more coherent, consistent, and connected system of support around our children and families It reimagines schools not just as places of learning, but as community anchors that can bring services and partners together to create a seamless pipeline of opportunity for every child
Our First Steps: A Journey of Discovery
Our school leaders are embarking on Phase One of the partnership, a six-month leadership programme This initial phase is a deep dive into the Cradle to Career mindset, involving national conferences and expert coaching. It will empower our leaders to explore our role as regenerative community institutions, audit our existing partnerships, and identify new opportunities to co-create a joined-up educational offer for our children and families
By adopting this cradle-to-career approach, we are committing to strengthening family relationships, connecting services more effectively, and aiming to ensure every child experiences a seamless and supportive journey from the early years into adulthood
A Good Night's Sleep: Our Commitment to Community
As part of our civic duty, we believe that every child deserves a safe and comfortable place to rest Our Bed and Breakfast project is a quiet but powerful example of our commitment to supporting the communities we serve.
Since last November, this vital initiative has provided brand new beds to more than 25 families across our Trust, ensuring children have a proper bed to sleep in. The positive feedback from parents has been incredible, highlighting the real difference this makes By helping families in need, we're helping children arrive at school rested and ready to learn
A Reminder for the New Academic Year
As we welcome a new cohort of pupils, please keep this project in mind It exists to support any of our families who are identified as being in need We don't advertise the service outwardly to maintain dignity and privacy, but it is a cornerstone of our support system
The referral process is simple and confidential If you believe a family could benefit from this support, please get in touch. All enquiries should be directed to Adele Reynolds Executive PA to the Director of Communications.
Windsor Academy Trust Community Foundation
Brighter Start FREE Breakfasts
Turbo Booster 1: Schools
A Fantastic Start to the Sporting Year at Tag Rugby Tournament
We held our first WAT PE event of the academic year, a fantastic Tag Rugby tournament hosted by Essington Rugby Club, in partnership with our Trust. A huge thank you to the team at Essington RFC for providing excellent facilities and supporting the smooth running of the day.
The event featured separate boys’ and girls’ tournaments, with strong representation from across the Trust Teams from Windsor, Cheslyn Hay, Kingswinford, Great Wyrley, and Newcastle competed in a series of highenergy matches that showcased both skill and sportsmanship.
It was a brilliant day of sport, filled with enthusiasm, determination, and collaboration Students demonstrated outstanding teamwork and respect, both on and off the field A special mention must go to our student sports leaders, who did an exceptional job officiating the matches Their confidence, fairness, and professionalism contributed hugely to the success of the event well done to all involved!
Results
Boys:
1 Great Wyrley
2 Cheslyn Hay
3 Windsor
4.Newcastle
5.Kingswinford
Girls:
1.Joint 1st: Windsor & Cheslyn Hay
2 Great Wyrley
4 Kingswinford
Aspire to Dance: Over 70 Boys Take to the Stage in a Celebration of Creativity
In a vibrant celebration of creativity and collaboration, 74 boys from six of our schools took to the stage for the recent Aspire to Dance showcase. This powerful project was designed to increase engagement in dance among boys, providing a dynamic platform for them to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and build lasting confidence
The initiative offered a fantastic opportunity for students to work with professional dancers and collaborate with peers from different schools. Throughout the project, they demonstrated incredible dedication and teamwork, culminating in a final performance that was both inspiring and brilliantly executed The showcase was a testament to their hard work and the supportive environment created by the staff involved
This project is a perfect example of our core mission to unlock the personal potential of every child By creating inclusive and challenging opportunities like Aspire to Dance, we actively challenge stereotypes, encourage self-expression, and empower our young people to discover and pursue new passions.
A huge congratulations to every student who participated and a sincere thank you to the staff who dedicated their time and energy to making this event such a resounding success
Classroom pedagogy: Creating Desirable Difficulties to make learning stick
Our Student Engagement approach highlights the value of students 'thinking hard' both in learning new content and in ‘struggling’ to retrieve prior knowledge
In this month’s blog, Craig Barton explores the seminal research of Elizabeth and Robert Bjork. They refer to “desirable difficulties” to make knowledge stick such as spacing out study sessions, frequent self testing, and varying the conditions of learning While these methods may initially make learning seem harder, they lead to more durable and flexible knowledge compared to traditional study techniques Their research highlights the benefits of retrieving information rather than simply re-reading it, emphasising the importance of actively engaging with learning materials for long-term memory.
All useful strategies as we approach the year 11 mock season
If you have a great suggestion for our blog of the month please email ktinsley@windsor.windsoracademytrust.org.uk
Turbo Booster 1: Schools A Quest for Excellence: Our Leader Study Tour to Mercia School
Continuous improvement is at the heart of effective leadership As part of our ongoing Headteacher development programme, our secondary Headteachers and Executive Team had the privilege of visiting the high-performing Mercia School in Sheffield on Friday 3rd October
As ‘hunter-gatherers of excellence,’ the visit was a fantastic opportunity to see a school with an exceptional academic record in action Mercia School achieved a Progress 8 score of +2 09 in 2024, placing it among the very best in the country This year, their first-ever A-level cohort achieved incredible results, with 46% of all grades at A* or A and 62% of students securing places at Russell Group universities.
To ensure we maximised the impact of the visit, our team focused on three key research questions, exploring:
How the school has strategically built a strong culture and sense of belonging to enable excellence
How the school demonstrates its high ambition for students through outcomes and expectations.
What we might learn from the school's innovative approach to Key Stage 3 assessments.
Our Director of Education, Helena Brothwell, captured the feeling of the day perfectly: "Mercia is an exceptional school that inspired us The warmth and the highest of expectations were so obvious to see The
Turbo Booster 1: Schools Windsor High School and Sixth Form Awarded Prestigious National Mark for Reading for Pleasure
We are delighted to share wonderful news from Windsor High School and Sixth Form, which has been awarded the UKLA/OU Reading for Pleasure Quality Mark (Silver)!
This prestigious award recognises the school's outstanding commitment to fostering a love of reading among its students. Windsor High is one of the very first secondary schools nationally to achieve this mark, highlighting their pioneering work in this area
The awarding panel praised the school, noting that their "commitment to developing a reading culture was clearly reflected" and they "greatly valued the impact evident across staff practice and children’s engagement with reading." This directly supports our Turbo Booster 1: Students mission , focusing on boosting education and unlocking the academic and personal potential that strong literacy skills underpin
This fantastic achievement is a testament to the dedication and passion of the entire school team, particularly Kerrie Tinson, whose leadership in developing this reading culture has been pivotal As the award letter noted, the school is truly at the "vanguard of documenting reading for pleasure nationally."
We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment Building a strong reading culture is fundamental to creating high-performing schools where all students can thrive
Congratulations to everyone at Windsor High School and Sixth Form on this well-deserved recognition!
Building Our Community: The Power of Thriving Together
This month has a strong focus on remembrance, community, and looking out for one another, which ties in perfectly with our WAT values.
In the busy world of education, the foundation of a truly collaborative team is often built in the social moments we share outside our professional roles Taking time for a staff coffee morning, a sports team, or a social event isn't just a break; it's a powerful investment in our community and our collective wellbeing.
Connecting socially helps us to:
Build real trust: When we connect as people, not just job titles, we build the invaluable trust that helps us navigate professional challenges together
Strengthen teamwork: Knowing our colleagues on a personal level leads to more open communication and more natural, effective collaboration.
Boost morale: Sharing a laugh and de-stressing as a group is essential for supporting one another and preventing burnout
Ultimately, this is the essence of what it means for us to ‘thrive together’, and it’s something we can all help build If you've been thinking about a way to connect with colleagues, now is the perfect time to plant the seed.
It doesn’t need to be a grand event It could be as simple as putting a sign-up sheet in the staffroom to see who’s interested in a weekly walking group or a board game night Perhaps you could start an email thread to organise a trip to the theatre or float the idea of an end-of-term potluck lunch If you have a passion from baking to book clubs to badminton it’s likely others do too.
We encourage you to be the catalyst Every one of these initiatives, no matter how small, strengthens the fabric of our community and makes our Trust a better place to be for everyone
Movember / Men’s Health Awareness Month
This is a crucial campaign raising awareness of men's health issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. It’s a great opportunity to open up conversations and to normalise seeking support
https://uk.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health
Mind works across all of England and Wales providing vital mental health support for everyone Mind Birmingham have a Men's Health drop-in session, this November and access free mental health and wellbeing support tailored for men https://birminghammind.org/movember-mens-healthevent-saturday-16th-november-2024/
North Staffs Mind also offers a number of support groups (free to access) designed to bring people together who are dealing with similar difficult circumstances.
Remembrance
(Sunday 9th &
Tuesday 11th November
A poignant and significant time for our staff, pupils and the wider community to honour the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces and their families.
You can connect with your local Royal British Legion branch to support the Poppy Appeal Search here for your closest Royal British Legion branch
2025)
Connecting with local facilities and groups, promotes both health and community engagement
Parkrun is a free, timed 5k event every Saturday morning
It’s incredibly welcoming to all abilities you can walk, jog, run, or volunteer. It's a fantastic way to start the weekend, get some fresh air, and connect with colleagues who might also attend
Indoor Fitness for Darker Evenings
Why not try Group exercise for motivation Become a member of your local leisure centre and check out their class timetables Classes are good for stress relief (Yoga, Pilates) or for an energy boost (Spin, Bodypump)
Many local leisure centres offer discounts for Bluelight card holders, and Vivup also offer discounts on certain gym membership
"Discover Your Local Parkrun"
It might feel early, but planning your Christmas finances now is the secret to a stress-free festive season Here’s how to get your budget sorted
Set Your Spending Limit
First, create a total Christmas budget As recommended by the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), list every single expense not just gifts, but food, travel, and socialising too Assign a strict limit to each category and stick to it This is your master plan to prevent overspending
Spread the Cost
Don't let your December payday take the full hit. Start shopping now to spread the cost over the next couple of months. Buying a few items each week is far more manageable and allows you to snag bargains during sales events like Black Friday (28th November)
Shop Smart, Save More
Make your money go further with a few simple tricks
Always compare prices online before you buy
Use cashback websites like TopCashback or Quidco to get money back on purchases you were already making.
Have an honest chat with family and friends about setting spending limits As Martin Lewis (MoneySavingExpert) suggests, agreeing to a "no unnecessary presents" pact can be a relief for everyone
Sidestep Festive Debt
Avoid a New Year debt hangover Citizens Advice warns that high-cost credit like store cards and payday loans can quickly spiral. While a 0% interest credit card can be a useful tool, it's a risk if you can't clear the full balance before the offer period ends The safest rule? If you haven't budgeted for it, don't buy it
For more detailed guidance, free tools, and impartial advice, visit:
MoneyHelper (from the Money and Pensions Service)
MoneySavingExpert (MSE)
Citizens Advice
DON’T
If you're struggling with your emotional, physical or financial wellbeing, our Employee Assistance Programme can help you!
Access online resources at educationsupport.org.uk/onlinesupport
Username: worklifesupport
Password: support
What is an Employee Assistance Programme?
An EAP is an employee benefit that provides 24/7 expert advice and support for employees to help them with any issues that may be affecting their mental health and wellbeing
An EAP includes counselling and practical support and advice on both personal and work-related issues
An Update on Our Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
We know that many of our staff are interested in the Electric Vehicle (EV) Salary Sacrifice Scheme that was mentioned in a previous bulletin We wanted to provide a quick update on where things stand
Unfortunately, the launch of the scheme has been temporarily paused. This is due to a recent decision by the Department for Education (DfE) to put all new EV salary sacrifice schemes on hold across the entire academy sector
We understand this will be disappointing news for those who were hoping to take advantage of the scheme Please be assured that we are still fully committed to offering this benefit to our staff as soon as we are able to.
The DfE has not yet provided a timescale for when this national restriction may be lifted As soon as there are any developments, we will be sure to provide a further update Thank you for your patience
NPQ applications
Applications are now OPEN for November 2025 NPQ Leadership and Specialist cohorts. There’s just one start date for NPQs in 2025/26 which is this November - no further cohorts later in the year.
Scholarship places are available for all NPQs for eligible schools and eligible programmes BUT ONLY FOR A LIMITED TIME - you MUST apply before the end of September to secure your funded place!
Apply now: loom.ly/W-Wp8cY Find the right NPQ for you:loom.ly/RT9BbUU
Bronze Award for Clayton Hall Academy’s Allotment Project
We’re delighted to share that Clayton Hall Academy received a Bronze Award in the Newcastle Borough Council Community Garden Awards this July! This recognition celebrates the incredible work being done by Alex Stevens and our students on the school allotment
Their dedication to sustainability, outdoor learning, and community engagement is truly inspiring Well done to everyone involved!
Get Ready for WAT COP 2025!
Mark your calendars! Our fourth annual student-led climate conference, WAT COP 2025, is set to take place on Thursday 20th November at the fantastic Windsor Olympus Academy
This year's theme focuses on Climate Wellbeing, Biodiversity, and Green Skills/Careers, bringing together our passionate student sustainability leaders from across the Windsor Academy Trust family for a day of inspiration, learning, and action.
We are incredibly excited to welcome two brilliant keynote speakers:
Heena Dave, Co-Founder of Climate Adapted Pathways for Education (CAPE), who will share her expertise on creating the conditions for climate change education to flourish.
Professor Jeremy Pritchard, Professor of Life Sciences Education at the University of Birmingham, a leading voice on biodiversity, climate change, and developing green skills
Students will dive into a range of engaging workshops led by experts from organisations including the Wildlife Trust, Severn Trent, and the National Education Nature Park team. From exploring future forests and understanding the science of climate change to learning about biodiversity, water usage, and planting microgreens, there will be something to spark everyone's interest
WAT COP is always a highlight of the school year, empowering our students to lead change and contribute to a greener future. We can't wait to see the energy, ideas, and collaboration that this year's event will bring!
More details will follow soon, but for now, get ready for another inspiring WAT COP! #WATStudyTour #Sustainability #StudentVoice
Contributing to the National Conversation at the CST Conference
This month, we were honoured to contribute to the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) Annual Conference at the ICC in Birmingham This is the most significant event in the school trust calendar, and having three of our senior leaders invited to present alongside national figures like Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, was a wonderful opportunity to share our work and learn from others.
The conference theme was "flourishing," exploring how our school system can deliver excellence, inclusion, and equity for all children Our CEO, Dawn Haywood, hosted an inspiring fireside chat with Baroness Sue Campbell for a keynote session titled "The Game Changer - flourishing in sport and leadership". In the session, Dawn introduced Baroness Campbell and guided a discussion exploring the values-driven leadership required to make a real difference for children and families, drawing on insights from our work as a Trust
We also had the opportunity to share our work in two key workshops Leanne Bridgwood co-presented a session on "the power of pupil voice", sharing the practical strategies we use to ensure our students are genuinely heard and empowered Answering the conference's call to build partnerships with other public services, Claire Gething officially unveiled our new, co-created "national framework for co-creating healthy futures", showcasing how we are working to bridge the gap between schools and healthcare
Adding to the wonderful atmosphere, the conference dinner on Thursday evening featured a fantastic performance by talented students from across our family of schools. Their performance was a brilliant showcase of the personal potential we champion within our Trust, and they truly embodied the conference's spirit of 'flourishing '
Sharing our work on pupil voice, civic leadership, our vision for co-creating healthy futures, and showcasing our students' talents was a privilege. It reflects the innovative work happening across our family of schools every day, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to the national conversation and our sector's "collective commitment to flourishing together "
Making Our Schools the First Choice for Families
October is always a busy and exciting time across our family of schools as our admissions campaigns get into full swing. It is a wonderful opportunity to open our doors and welcome the community to see why a Windsor Academy Trust school is the best choice for their child
We are delighted to share the fantastic results from our secondary school open evenings, which are a key measure of our growing reputation Across the family, we saw an incredible 2,548 families book a place to see what our schools are all about. This represents a huge 20% increase from 2,120 bookings last year.
This incredible achievement is not by chance; it is the direct result of a coordinated, strategic effort from our brilliant school marketing and leadership teams By working together and following the plan set out in our Admissions Marketing Handbooks, we have been able to reach more families than ever before.
Our campaigns follow the proven RACE model (Reach, Act, Convert, Engage) to guide families from their first point of interest to becoming part of our school community The recent success is thanks to the early 'Reach' phase over the summer, where we increased our visibility through digital marketing and strengthened our ties with local primary schools This was followed by the 'Act' phase, where targeted communications in September and October encouraged families to take the next step and book their place at an open event.
This is Turbo Booster 5: System in action A key goal of our strategy is to ensure our schools are the number one choice for families, with our schools being full or oversubscribed These incredible booking numbers show that we are well on our way to achieving that.
The momentum is set to continue With the primary admissions window having opened on 1st October, our primary schools are now rolling out their own series of open events using the same successful playbook We look forward to seeing a similarly fantastic turnout
Of course, getting families to book is just the first step. The real magic happens when they arrive. Later in this bulletin, we will celebrate the amazing work our school teams do to run such welcoming and inspiring events that truly set a Windsor Academy Trust school apart
A huge well done to everyone involved Your collective hard work is making all the difference
Our Voice on the National Stage: Windsor Academy Trust at Party Conferences
This month, we were proud to contribute to the national education debate as our leaders were invited to speak on expert panels at both the Labour and Conservative Party Conferences. It was a privilege to have a voice in these important discussions, reflecting our commitment to shaping the wider education system and sharing the brilliant work of our family of schools
At the Labour Party Conference, our CEO, Dawn Haywood, joined a panel hosted by the Education Policy Institute to discuss the question: ‘Can technology solve the challenges facing education?’. Dawn shared insights from our EmpowerED strategy, highlighting the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support teachers and reduce workload The discussion also explored the importance of ensuring all students have equal access to technology to avoid widening the disadvantage gap
Meanwhile, at the Conservative Party Conference, Kat Howard, our Executive Lead for School Improvement, spoke on a panel about the future of the curriculum. The session, titled ‘Curriculum reform: how can we build on the successes of previous governments?’, explored the critical 11-16 age range Kat shared her expertise on building an ambitious, knowledge-rich curriculum while considering the balance between breadth of content and depth of learning, and an approach of ‘evolution, not revolution’
To have the opportunity to share our work on these national stages is a testament to the dedication and innovation of everyone across our Trust It ensures that the experiences and successes from our classrooms are helping to inform the future of education policy, all in service of our shared mission to unlock potential and co-create brighter futures for all children
Igniter: Technology Triple Triumph: Showcase School Success for the Fourth Year
Running
We are thrilled to announce that Clayton Hall Academy, Sir Thomas Boughey Academy, and Newcastle Academy have all earned the prestigious Microsoft Showcase School status. This marks the fourth consecutive year we have celebrated this global recognition.
This award honours schools worldwide that lead the way in using technology to make learning exciting and creative It places them within a global community celebrated for innovative educational practices
A Celebration of School Success
This fantastic achievement stems from the hard work of staff and students at each school They've created classrooms where technology sparks creativity and prepares students with essential digital skills for the future.
Caty Reid, Headteacher at Clayton Hall Academy, called it a "fantastic honour," celebrating teachers' dedication to creating the "very best learning experiences "
Lisa Shoreman, Headteacher at Sir Thomas Boughey Academy, said, "It’s a testament to our wonderful staff and students who have embraced new ways of learning... building the confidence and skills they need to succeed "
Will Trugeon-Smith, Headteacher at Newcastle Academy, shared, "This recognition shows our commitment to providing an education that is exciting and forward-thinking."
A Proud Moment for Our Whole Family
Having three schools receive this global honour is a source of immense pride for the entire Windsor Academy Trust. It highlights our shared commitment to excellence and our EmpowerED strategy – our promise to use digital tools purposefully in every classroom
Dave Buckley, Head of IT and Digital Transformation, added, "To have schools recognised in this way for the fourth year in a row is a fantastic achievement... Their success is a shining example of how we can use digital tools to help unlock the potential of every student."
Congratulations to the students, staff, and communities of Clayton Hall, Sir Thomas Boughey, and Newcastle Academy on this superb achievement! Their success inspires our whole family as we continue to learn and grow together
Book with: Michelle Nugent
Sal Khan
iPad Accessibility Focus: Building Independence and Self-Regulation
�� 1. Speak Screen – Hear text read aloud
Pupils can swipe down with two fingers to have any text read aloud
Benefit: Supports metacognition by helping learners monitor comprehension; they can listen back to check meaning, flow, and accuracy.
Tap the microphone icon on the keyboard and speak to write.
Benefit: Frees working memory and supports planning; pupils can focus on what they want to say before editing, developing reflective habits
�� Settings → General → Keyboard → Enable Dictation
�� 3. Display & Text Size – Adjust for comfort
Change font size, contrast, or colour filters for easier reading
Benefit: Encourages self-regulation as pupils learn to personalise settings to suit their needs, increasing independence and ownership of learning
Google Updates
To keep everyone up to date with the latest features and improvements in Google Workspace for Education, we have created a dedicated slide deck that will be updated each month. This resource will provide key updates, tips, and insights to support staff in making the most of Google tools in the classroom You can access the slide deck anytime through this bulletin, ensuring you never miss an update Click on the image below for your copy of the slide deck:
Igniter: Communications
Celebrating Our Spectacular Open Events
Autumn term is always synonymous with the buzz and energy of our open event season, and this year has been no exception! Across our secondary schools and sixth forms, we have thrown open our doors and welcomed a record number of prospective students and their families
These events are a cornerstone of our admissions calendar and a true reflection of the incredible communities within our schools This success would not be possible without the tireless efforts, passion, and dedication of our staff. A huge and heartfelt thank you goes to everyone involved, from our headteachers and marketing leads to our amazing teaching and support staff, site teams, and, of course, our brilliant student ambassadors who are our greatest advocates You are all a shining example of our family at its best
As you will have read in the Turbo Booster 5 section, we have seen a huge increase in visitor numbers year-on-year, a testament to the growing reputation of our schools and the hard work everyone puts in. While our secondary open evenings have now drawn to a close, our primary events are in full swing and are proving just as popular It has been wonderful to see so many new faces exploring what makes our primary schools so special
Thank you once again to everyone who makes these spectacular events happen. They are so much more than just a tour; they are the first step for many families in joining our mission to unlock academic and personal potential
Take a look at some of the amazing photos from the events below
Showcasing Our Schools
To help our schools stand out in an increasingly competitive environment, we have created a series of new promotional videos for Kingswinford Academy, Sir Thomas Boughey Academy, and Newcastle Academy. These videos will play a key role in our digital marketing, helping us to reach a wider audience and showcase the unique strengths of each school
Kingswinford Academy
Sir Thomas Boughey Academy
Newcastle Academy
Igniter: Resources
Catering
Windsor High School and Sixth Form had a fantastic month earning the top Food Hygiene rating - ‘5 Scores on the Doors’ in their recent visit with the Environmental Health Officer
In addition to this, they also achieved 100% compliance in their recent audit with Relish. A fantastic result that reflects the high standards they maintain and our commitment to providing good quality, nutritious meals for our students every day
Rivers catering team have been getting into the spirit of Halloween with their spooky desserts! They look delicious!
Igniter: Governance Chair and Vice Chair Appointments for 2025-2026
We are pleased to share with our school communities across Windsor Academy Trust the appointment of our Chair and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the 2025–26 academic year.
WAT Chair of the Board of Directors – Mr Andrew Middleton
Andy brings almost two decades of experience in a range of leadership and governance roles and has previously served as Chair to the WAT Board of Directors, playing a key role in supporting the team throughout his time in the WAT Family
Andy’s professional background includes many senior leadership roles in the public sector, and most recently, he led transport planning for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Andy is passionate about ensuring all students across the WAT Family receive the very best education and opportunities to unlock their personal and academic potential We are delighted to have his continued leadership and experience guiding the work of the Board of Directors
WAT Vice Chair of the Board of Directors – Mrs Karen Canham
Karen has a strong background in education, including headship and she brings a wealth of insight and understanding of school leadership and governance
Since joining the Board of Directors, Karen has contributed thoughtfully to discussions and has demonstrated a clear commitment to the WAT mission of unlocking the academic and personal potential of every child As Vice Chair, she will work closely with Andy to support the Board of Directors in its oversight and in her role as Local Governance Link Director.
Together, Andy and Karen bring a strong combination of experience, leadership, and dedication to the WAT family We thank them for their commitment and look forward to their continued leadership over the coming year
