Key insights for operations leaders and executive teams in school trusts
Operational leadership plays a crucial role in the long-term sustainability and success of any school trust. Our latest Operations Deep-Dive Report, developed in partnership with the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), builds on findings from the National CST School Trust Survey 2024.
Drawing on feedback from 417 trust leaders across England, this deep-dive explores the operational priorities, infrastructure challenges, and evolving strategies that are shaping trust operations today.
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Why operations leaders should read this report
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Focus on operational priorities:
Learn which areas trust leaders are prioritising this year, including technology, data infrastructure, HR, and facilities management – plus how this differs by trust size. -
Understand sector responses to AI:
Explore how trusts are approaching artificial intelligence – from piloting new tools and training staff to updating policies – alongside gaps in implementation. -
Benchmark your estate strategy:
Discover how trusts across England are addressing deteriorating school buildings, with over two-thirds reporting buildings in poor condition. -
Central vs local operations:
See how trusts are structuring operational leadership – from finance and estates to staffing and inclusion – and how larger trusts differ in their level of central direction. -
Sustainability & climate planning:
Find out how many trusts are taking action on sustainability and what steps others are planning as they develop or implement climate action plans.Whether you’re a COO, operations director, or part of a central executive team, this report offers valuable, data-led insights to help you lead trust operations more effectively in 2025 and beyond.