The Diocese of Coventry Multi Academy Trust has strengthened its team with the appointment of two experienced education leaders, supporting its continued development and commitment to inclusion across its 22 academies.

Andy Taylor joins the trust in the role of Head of Transformation & Growth on a secondment from the Messenger Education Trust. Andy will work for the trust for three days a week, while continuing his role as Chief Executive Officer and Executive Headteacher at the Messenger Education Trust, based at St Gabriel’s CofE Academy in Rugby.

Andy brings extensive experience of leadership within the multi-academy trust sector and will support the trust as it continues to develop its schools and strengthen the opportunities available to children, families and colleagues.

Andy said, “As the leader of another multi academy trust in the diocese, I have been watching the development of the Diocese of Coventry Multi Academy Trust with interest. It is clear that we share a collective Christian foundation to encourage ‘life in all its fullness’ and I have seen firsthand that this trust cares deeply about providing the best possible education to all the children they serve. I am greatly looking forward to contributing to this mission and helping even more children, families and colleagues to flourish.”

Rebecca Fuller (Becky) comes to the trust as its first Head of Inclusion. Becky, who lives locally, previously held the role of Deputy Director of SEND at Academy Transformation Trust, a national multi academy trust of 22 academies across England.

In her new role, Becky will lead the trust’s strategic approach to inclusion, with a particular focus on ensuring that pupils with additional vulnerabilities receive the support they need to succeed and thrive.

Becky said, “I’m really excited to meet new colleagues and begin working with schools across the Trust. I’m particularly looking forward to supporting our work around inclusion, with a focus on ensuring that pupils with additional vulnerabilities receive the right support to achieve their potential and flourish.”

Michael Cowland, the Chief Executive Officer of the Diocese of Coventry Multi Academy Trust said, “Everyone in our trust is focused on our purpose: providing safe spaces where everyone is inspired to learn, achieve, contribute and thrive in life. I am delighted that we have been able to bring two such talented and experienced education leaders into our skilled and dedicated team.”

“Our trust is continuing to build in strength. Pupil outcomes are improving, attendance is improving, and our colleagues tell us they feel that they belong here. These appointments will help us build on that progress and deliver even more for our 22 academies, 900 colleagues and 5,000 children. I am genuinely excited about what we can achieve together.”

The trust continues to see improvements in pupil outcomes and attendance, with attendance now above the national average. Inspection judgements reflect the hard work of colleagues across its academies, while strong staff retention and development remain a key focus.