CST National Survey 2024: Quality of Education Deep-Dive

quality of education deep-dive

Key insights for trust CEOs, directors of education, and safeguarding leaders

Delivering a high-quality education across all schools in trust requires a shared vision, coordinated strategies, and deep understanding of local needs. Developed in partnership with the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), this Quality of Education Deep-Dive Report explores the challenges and priorities shaping education provision across England’s trusts.

Drawing on feedback from 417 trust CEOs, the report offers a sector-wide view of where trusts are focusing their improvement efforts – from inclusion and attendance to curriculum development and safeguarding.

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Why education leaders should read this report

  • Inclusion and SEND top the priority list:
    73% of trust leaders identified inclusion and SEND as a key focus in 2024/25, reflecting a major shift toward more equitable education.

  • Attendance is now a quality priority:
    With 61% of CEOs prioritising attendance, the report explores what’s working – like targeted interventions and stronger parental engagement.

  • Understand the challenges of SEND provision:
    Funding and staffing pressures are the most common barriers to effective SEND support, particularly in larger trusts.

  • Review curriculum development trends:
    Despite not being mandatory, most trusts are highly influenced by the National Curriculum.

  • Track how safeguarding roles are evolving:
    69% of trusts now have a dedicated trust-wide safeguarding lead. Discover how this differs by trust size.

Read the report →