CEO Thought for the Week

Hi Everyone!

Crikey! The weeks are just flying by but at least we have seen some sunshine this week and its a bank holiday weekend! I hope you all enjoy the extra day with your family and friends!

Another busy week across Infinity Academies Trust and I've had the privilege to visit four of our schools this week. What's lovely it that our schools feel like such positive places.

I often try and put myself in the position of a child or parent visiting our schools for the first time and think about what kind of impression our school sites, staff and children would make. I have to say that when I do this I come away thinking how the positive ethos and culture of our schools shines through. From the warm welcome we always get at reception, to the wonderful displays, polite children and genuinely engaged and interested staff you can't help but come away from our schools impressed and feeling valued. This doesn't happen by accident we are all working on this each and every day to keep our schools tidy, bright and engaging, to keep a positive energy in our interactions and to ensure visitors leave saying what a fab place our schools are. I really want you to know that we really value the effort that goes into making that happen especially when we are all so busy and under pressure. Kindness matters and you guys show it in abundance! Thank you!

If you have the opportunity it would be great if you would consider responding to the "alternate" big listen. As you know recently Ofsted conducted a "big listen" to get the views of the sector around inspections. There were many education leaders who felt it didn't ask the right questions so an alternate version has been created with the intention of getting the true views of those working in education and using the outcomes in discussion with the DFE and other policy makers. If you would like to contribute you can access the short questionnaire here: https://thealternativebiglisten.co.uk/

Thanks again for another great week across the Trust and really do enjoy the long weekend!

Best Wishes

Gavin

PS- I'm excited to share that Kirstyn Moffat our Trust Lead Practitioner who has been seconded to Gipsey Bridge Academy as Headteacher for most of this year is moving permanently to this position. Kirstyn has had such a positive impact at GBA and I know she and the team are thrilled that she is going to be leading them on the next stage of their journey. Kirstyn will continue to lead our EYFS network alongside her headship role.