The Fourth Trust Schools National Conference took place on 23rd June 2010 in London.
The conference was a celebration of success where over 300 delegates had the opportunity to showcase their achievements, share practice and network.
Professor Ron Richie from the University of the West of England opened the conference with a keynote address. He described the enormous difference that trusts have made in education, to which universities had contributed.
The important criteria for choosing trust partners, said Professor Ritchie, include:
Delegates then had the opportunity to attend three sessions, having a choice of 23 which included presentations from headteachers / school leaders, governors and trust partners.
Students also played an active role in the conference:
The closing keynote was provided by Maggie Galliers, Principal of Leicester College, who described successful partnerships as those where participants are motivated by what they can do for the collaboration, rather than simply what they think they can get out of it. The secret of success in partnerships, she said, was to recognise each other’s specialisms and play to each other’s strengths.
The day flew by and delegates said how much they enjoyed the excellent presentations and the opportunity to visit the exhibition and speak with exhibitors about their contribution to trust schools. Refreshment breaks and lunchtime proved to be an excellent opportunity for exchanges of ideas and practice, and also getting to know colleagues in other parts of the country. The atmosphere throughout the day was electric – delegates said they wanted more of this type of event as they went home inspired, enthused and saturated with examples of good practice.
A good event, very enjoyable and informative
The Trust models I saw were clearly making a difference and it was inspiring to see how many of those were fully inclusive
The conference organising team were very friendly and extremely professional. It had a real family feel to it
Benefits from hearing what others do; confirming that what you've done so far isn't crazy; and the excellent networking opportunities
Good quality information and advice
Useful networking and a sense of being part of a national movement
It is relevant and high quality with excellent keynotes and presenters
A number of tangible and practical ideas to explore - very thought provoking. Also the opportunity to network and discuss ideas with colleagues
Networking and listening to actual trust schools, benefits
of being a trust school, as some of my customers (who are schools)
are considering it and frequently ask me for my opinion