Message from David Horn, CEO

Dear All,

As we reach the end of term, and the end of a year like no other, I wanted to thank you on behalf of the Trust for your support in such challenging times. 

Headteachers of all schools tell me day in day out how proud they are of our learners and staff teams, how amazed they have been by the willingness of all to adapt and do all you can to keep children and each other as safe as possible. They have told me of countless examples of generosity of spirit, of kindness, and a willingness to go the extra mile for one another. It makes me immensely proud to be a part of this Trust.

We should be immensely proud of how with the support of our families, we have kept our schools open and provided a quality education for our young people in the most challenging of circumstances. The positive impact of just being open and providing some form of normality on young people and their families cannot be underestimated. 

For those of you who are affected in any way by the virus and are facing challenges of many kinds, our thoughts are with you.

Last week there was news of a 90 year old grandmother from Coventry being the first to be vaccinated against the virus. This is wonderful. It is going to be many months yet before we have all been offered that vaccine and can begin to return to some form of normality but it provides light at the end of the tunnel. It gives us optimism that 2021 will be an easier year for us all than 2020. We are steadily getting there. 

Finally, what the last year demonstrates more than anything else for me, is that when things are difficult, people stand together. Goodness shines through. I have heard more stories this year of social justice and selflessness, there is much to be inspired by. 

Wishing you a safe, peaceful and happy Christmas time. 

David Horn, CEO