COOs PLLC - Session 3

As Multi-Academy Trusts grow and evolve, establishing consistent operational systems and processes across schools becomes increasingly important. From school office procedures and administrative workflows to data systems, recruitment and training of operational staff, COOs play a critical role in ensuring that trusts operate efficiently while maintaining clarity and consistency for schools.

This session will explore the opportunities and challenges involved in standardising operational systems across a MAT, particularly as trusts scale or onboard new schools. Colleagues will share practical examples from their own organisations, reflecting on how systems, structures and processes have developed over time and how they support schools to work in a more consistent and effective way.

Discussion will include:

• Creating consistent school office and administrative processes across multiple schools

• Embedding “the trust way” of working while maintaining positive relationships with schools

• Recruiting, developing and supporting administrative and operational staff

• The influence of data systems and technology on operational practices

• Lessons learned from onboarding new schools into established operational systems

As with previous sessions, this will be a collaborative and discussion-led event. Participants are encouraged to come prepared to share examples from their own trust, including approaches, challenges and practical tools that have supported operational consistency.

The session will provide an opportunity to learn from peers, reflect on your own approach, and contribute to a growing network of operational leaders across the Inspiring Leaders Partnership.

This session is open to ALL colleagues working in COO roles or similar. Please do book on to join our group.