Registration, Breakfast & Networking, Chairs Welcoming Address

This panel discussion will bring together a number of Trusts, varying in size and location, to discuss how we improve the core issues of recruitment and retention that run throughout the challenges education leaders are facing.

As Deputy Chief Executive (COO and CFO) of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT) Lee is responsible for the strategic operational functions of the organisation. He is an experienced Business Manager/Finance Director with more than 15 years of experience, supporting both primary and secondary schools. He continues to work closely with the ESFA and, as result, has been deployed in a number of Trusts that have required support or intervention.

This interactive workshop provides an essential guide to MAT leaders on managing redundancies effectively, lawfully and sensitively. We will cover key legal principles including fair redundancy processes, collective consultation requirements and avoiding unfair dismissal claims. Attendees will gain practical insights into: ✅ Identifying genuine redundancy situations and those at risk ✅ Legal obligations under UK employment law ✅ Best practices for consultation and communication ✅ Union management ✅ Selection criteria and alternatives to redundancy The session will include case studies, interactive discussions, and Q&A to ensure MATs are equipped to handle redundancy processes fairly and compliantly.

7 and a half ideas that work... We'll look at how leaders can create culture as part of an effective people strategy that permeates every school. I'll share the slides towards the end of the week.

We all know that we cannot wait for the substantial systemic changes necessary to address the recruitment, retention and burnout crises. This session will share valuable insights into how you can develop a self-sustaining coaching culture within your organisation to enhance the personal wellbeing and professional satisfaction of staff across ALL roles. Fully evidence-informed, you will hear from a number of Trust and School Leaders who have found this simple approach transformative to creating a happier, healthier and higher-performing workforce.

Morning Networking, Refreshments & Breakout

This session will be delivered by Bright Futures Educational Trust.

Education supply staffing in England is a tricky problem to solve. How do other countries and industries solve the issue of temporary staffing? Do strategic solutions exist and what opportunities do they present MATs?

Lunch Networking, Refreshments & Breakout

Once you have written your Strategy what are your next steps to really bring your strategy to life. What are your key focus areas and how do you deliver on those. How do you really embody your People Strategy across the Trust, so that all staff know what your key aims and objectives are. And most importantly lets talk EDI (equality, diversity and inclusion) and how you embed this into your Strategy and work out your key pieces of work to do across the Trust.

Proposed changes aim to modernise the education system, responding to societal shifts and technological advancements. For HR Directors this evolution underscores the importance of strategic workforce planning, professional development, and succession planning to effectively adapt to these curriculum changes. What do we need to consider?

Chairs Closing Address

Event Close