- DMAT offers a comprehensive school improvement programme. This is delivered and supported by experienced senior leaders from within our trust and through external experts. Please see our School Improvement model for further details.
- People are our greatest asset. We know from experience how important it is to support and mentor new senior leaders and headteachers. Senior leaders from the trust team will offer bespoke support and mentoring programmes which can complement existing support or replace it, depending on the individual circumstances and what is most appropriate.
- DMAT will lead the Headteacher appraisal process, including review of targets, setting new targets and interim reviews. The local governing body will remain a key part of this process with their in-depth knowledge of their setting.
- Headteacher and senior leader collaborative learning networks will be established across our trust.
- In terms of OfSTED preparation we will utilise expertise from across our trust so we can support and guide schools through their OfSTED journey. Our school to school support model will be central to this. Trust resources will be utilised as needed, including key colleagues from our research school and senior trust leaders and trustees.
- Support will be determined through the mutual information gathering process which happens prior to a school joining our trust. Once part of DMAT, review days with regular learning walks, quality assurance activities, feedback and discussion of outcomes will inform the support strategy.
- Professional HR and legal support delivered through trust specialists or external partners through our SLA services.
- Experienced leaders across the trust are available to support/guide with complex complaints. If necessary, we will draft letters and/or attend meetings.
- The appointment of the schools Headteacher is hugely significant. However the process can be time consuming and complex. The trust will lead on this process, utilising our professional links and trust- wide succession plans to attract a broad field of great talent. Local governing bodies will remain key to this process as LGBs know communities, children, families and staff best.
- Expert support available at any time. Our trust team is always available for advice and support, or just to talk through an idea. We will always be honest and have your best interests at heart. As we grow we are confident colleagues across our trust will naturally form support networks and become critical friends.