Trustees Update December 2024

Dear Soke Education Trust community,

As we reflect on the recent developments within our organisation, I am pleased to share with you the outcomes of our December Board of Trustees meeting. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity to review our progress, celebrate our achievements, and chart the course for our continued growth and improvement.

The meeting commenced with a comprehensive report from the CEO, summarising the key activities and progress made in relation to our Trust Improvement Plan. It is with pride that I can confirm the positive position of our trust, particularly in light of the recent favourable Ofsted outcomes. These results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, pupils, and the impact of governance.

One encouraging aspect of our recent progress has been the notable reduction in staff attrition and absence rates. This positive trend can be attributed to the enhanced ethos we have cultivated within our organisation through better communication, greater opportunities to collaborate, high quality CPD and investment in resources. The improved working environment and increased job satisfaction among our staff members are important factors in maintaining the high standards of education we strive to deliver.

In our ongoing commitment to safeguarding, the implementation of a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) network and the adoption of the Clarity system for safeguarding reporting were shared. Trustees agreed that these initiatives will further strengthen our safeguarding practises, support staff carrying out this important role and ensure the safety & wellbeing of our pupils remains at the forefront of our operations.

The meeting also addressed the challenges posed by falling pupil rolls and the impact of our recent marketing efforts. It was noted by one Trustee that one of our schools has experienced a significant positive impact, while another has seen an increase in its positive reputation within the community. These outcomes underscore the importance of our continued focus on enhancing the profile of our schools and the trust as a whole.

A portion of the meeting was devoted to a discussion of the current financial landscape for schools. The Trustees engaged in a detailed examination of the potential impact on current and future school budgets. Recognising the importance of financial prudence, we deliberated on the necessity of implementing auditable procedures in cases where budgets deviate from the agreed positions established at the beginning of the year. This approach aligns with best practices observed in other institutions beyond education and was promoted by one Trustee as a good practice procedure to implement.

In an effort to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our governance structure, the Trustees approved a proposal to restructure the committee framework of the board. This restructuring will involve the division of the Audit, Risk, Finance & People committee into two separate groups. Chairs for these new committees have been appointed, and we anticipate that this reconfiguration will facilitate improved oversight and more productive meetings.

Lastly, the Trustees reviewed and ratified four policies, further solidifying our commitment to maintaining robust and up-to-date governance frameworks.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with the Soke Education Trust. Your involvement is crucial to our collective success, and I look forward to sharing more positive developments with you in the future.

Laura Holland

Chair of Trustees