Sharing what works

At Together Learning Trust, we believe that great practice should never be kept behind closed doors. Over the past term, we have had the privilege of both hosting collaborative visitors and showcasing our work on a regional stage. Both experiences have reinforced just how powerful it is when school leaders commit to sharing expertise freely and openly.

In October we were delighted to welcome school leaders from CORE Education Trust as part of a professional exchange facilitated by The Education Exchange - West Midlands. Their visit centred on raising attainment in English and Maths, and gave our guests the opportunity to see firsthand how The Brooksbank School's journey of improvement has been shaped by collaboration, shared expertise and an unwavering focus on student outcomes.

Throughout the day, colleagues visited lessons, explored our curriculum and resources, engaged in open discussions with leaders, directors, staff and students, and even joined a RAG meeting. They also visited Honley High School to see how great practice is aligned across our Trust. Throughout the visit, visitors reflected on what they had learned and recognised why it's so important to 'pay it forward' by sharing effective approaches with others, openly and freely.

We have also had leaders from Together Learning Trust joining other Trust and School Leaders from across Yorkshire and the Humber at the Department for Education's RISE Conference at Leeds Armories. The conference explored strategies to raise attainment, especially for the most disadvantaged pupils.

We presented on the power of enrichment and how it brings a sense of belonging for all pupils so they fully engage in strategies that enable them to achieve excellent outcomes and how it provides the rich, joyful experiences every young person deserves.

Triestina Bozzo, our Senior Director of Professional Development, spoke about student leadership across the Trust, while Damian Ball, Assistant Headteacher at The Brooksbank School, shared how student volunteering is helping to build stronger community relationships and create meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.

Our CEO, David Lord, reflected on our work with The Education Exchange and how this collaboration has helped to transform The Brooksbank School and Together Learning Trust, re-energising both staff and students through a renewed focus on excellence, happiness, aspiration, character and outcomes.

Across all our sessions, whether hosting visitors or presenting regionally, we shared one unwavering message:

We want happy, motivated, confident learners and staff who are committed to creating the conditions that help children flourish.

We're proud to be part of a regional network working together to make education more inclusive, enriching and equitable for every young person. When we share what works, we don't just improve our own schools, we help transform education for all the communities we serve.