What is Aligned Autonomy?
As a multi-academy trust, our objective is to operate in a sweet spot between a cookie-cutter, one size fits all model and schools operating completely independently. We call this 'Aligned Autonomy'.
Each school in our multi-academy trust has a unique identity, is configured to meet the needs of its community, led by a Headteacher and a Local Governing Body.
Nevertheless, we expect each school to share our vision and values, and ensure every child receives an exceptional education. As such we insist each has:
- An explicit ethos and culture of high expectations and inclusion
- Behaviour of the highest standard
- A meticulously planned curriculum, which is delivered consistently well by teachers every lesson, every day to every child
- A robust culture of safeguarding
- A thorough and inclusive personal development strategy
- Leadership at every level who are focused and driven by the right priorities
- Rigorous internal and external quality assurance
- A culture of continuous improvement
We expect them to relentlessly focus on the components of highly effective schools, to develop and share best practice, to follow agreed Trust quality frameworks (i.e. curriculum, SEN & safeguarding); and engage in partnership and Trust-led improvement strategies. To move towards alignment if this improves quality and effectiveness.
For some centralised aspects of our work, specifically finance, estates, IT and HR we insist policy and practice is fully aligned and consistent.
We foster individual school responsibility, independence, and identity; but use the Trust to frame priorities, share great practice, support school improvement, provide exceptional central services. This approach frees schools to get on with what really matters: running exceptional schools.
An article about the Trust published in March 2022 explains our approach in more detail. Read the article here.
