In February 2020 an exciting new chapter in the evolution of our Catholic schools will begin. Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) are groups of schools formally working together to provide a strong Catholic identity within the community and improve the prospects of the pupils in their care. Bishop Peter Doyle (now Emeritus) and the Diocesan Trustees have encouraged all schools to join their local Catholic MAT, with around half the schools in the diocese taking up the offer so far.
Building on the success of the small MATs, NORES, the education office of the Bishop, is pleased to announce the formation of two regional MATs to cover both the north and south of the diocese from 1st February. Joe Richardson, former Head teacher at Cardinal Newman School in Luton and Chief Executive Officer for the St Albans MAT has been appointed Strategic Executive Leader for St Thomas Catholic Academies Trust covering schools in Luton, Central Bedfordshire and Slough. Tony Bishop, former Executive Head teacher of St Francis of Assisi MAT in Bedford has been appointed Strategic Executive Leader for Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Academies Trust covering schools in Bedford, Northampton town and North Northants.
Collette Curtis, Director of School Development said,
“This is a great opportunity for all our schools to work together, sharing expertise in overcoming local challenges and providing exciting opportunities for our staff to develop and nurture our future Catholic leaders”
Emeritus Bishop Peter said,
“We are at our best when we work together, for each other, in service of the common good, embracing both solidarity and subsidiarity. This is essential in all decisions undertaken by our Catholic schools.”
For more information about your local Catholic school and the new MATs contact NORES on 01582 723312 or admin@nores.org.uk