A Devon academy trust has been recognised on the national stage after securing two shortlist nominations at a major education awards ceremony celebrating excellence across multi-academy trusts.
Education South West, which runs eight primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a University Technical College across Devon, has been shortlisted in two categories at the MAT Excellence Awards organised by Optimus Education.
The trust is a finalist for Chief Financial Officer of the Year, with Stuart White recognised for his leadership across finance and operations. Education South West has also been shortlisted for the Staff Development Award for trusts with 13 or more schools.
White, the trust’s chief financial officer and chief operating officer, has overseen the organisation’s finances while helping to strengthen wider operational systems.
Under his leadership, Education South West has recorded clean audits each year. His work has also included introducing in-house data systems and developing HR infrastructure across the trust.
The staff development nomination highlights the trust’s approach to professional development and wellbeing.
Education South West offers personalised development pathways, coaching and professional networks designed to support staff at different stages of their careers. Its Grow Your Own leadership programmes and flexible continuing professional development routes have helped create internal progression opportunities.
Eleven of the trust’s 14 headteachers have been promoted from within the organisation.
The trust said its wellbeing pledge and shared teaching principles aim to support collaboration, consistency and staff support across its schools. It added that rising staff satisfaction and internal promotions reflect the impact of the approach.
The MAT Excellence Awards recognise academy trusts across the country for their impact on pupils, staff and communities. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Wednesday, June 18.
Matthew Shanks, chief executive officer of Education South West, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to see Stuart and the wider Education South West team recognised at a national level. These shortlists reflect the strength of our collective effort, from robust financial stewardship to the deep investment we make in developing and supporting our people.”
Matthew added: “We believe that when you grow great staff, you transform life chances for children. This recognition belongs to every colleague across our trust who works tirelessly to serve our communities each day.”
