MATPN DIGITAL AGENDA

21st May 2026, DoubleTree Hilton, Tower of London

MATPN Digital is a unique, learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers in the MAT sector to share cutting-edge insight, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.

Day 1

21 May 2026

8:00 am - 9:00 am

Main Room

Registration
9:00 am - 9:05 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

Zaitoon Bukhari is the Director of Digital Learning at Achievement Through Collaboration MultiAcademy Trust, where she spearheads the integration of technology into the very heart of the learning experience. A passionate advocate for education, Zaitoon’s mission is to empower both teachers and students through the strategic use of digital tools.
Zaitoon is currently leading the charge in implementing the Trust’s Digital Strategy, a bold vision for a unified educational platform that fosters collaboration, eases staff burdens, and elevates pedagogical expertise. Her work transcends individual schools, weaving technology into the very fabric of the Trust, creating a seamless and interconnected learning environment.
Driven by a deep understanding of both education and technology, Zaitoon brings a wealth of experience to the table. With over 14 years in the classroom and 6 years of dedicated EdTech expertise, she is a Google Certified Trainer, Google Certified Innovator, and Google Certified Coach and the Silver Winner for Digital Innovator 2024 by the Pearson National Teaching Awards. This diverse skill set allows her to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring the effective implementation of digital solutions that truly benefit students and teachers alike.
Zaitoon’s leadership extends beyond the confines of the Trust. She has also worked as the UK Training Lead for two of Google for Education PD Partners, where she shares her knowledge and expertise with educators across the country. This dedication to professional development underscores her commitment to building a strong and vibrant community of educators who leverage technology to unlock the full potential of learning.
Zaitoon is not simply a Director of Digital Learning; she is a visionary leader, a passionate educator, and a champion for the transformative power of technology in education. Her dedication to creating a future where technology empowers, not replaces, human connection is paving the way for a more collaborative, engaging, and effective learning experience for all.

Zaitoon Bukhari

Director of Digital Education
Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

Welcome to the MAT Partnership Network!
9:05 am - 9:45 am

Main Room

Opening keynote panel –Handling digital transformation in the face of rapid change and limited budgets

Lisa Hawker

Director of Operations
ARK Schools

Dave Smith

Director of Procurement and Trust-wide Projects
Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust

Sarah Baber

Chief Executive Officer
Great Learners Trust

Andrew Harris

Chief Information Officer
Halliard Trust

Education leaders today are navigating an unprecedented landscape of financial restraints and rapid technology change, with more than more than half of MATs forecasting an in-year deficit in 2025. This confluence of fiscal pressure and p...

Education leaders today are navigating an unprecedented landscape of financial restraints and rapid technology change, with more than more than half of MATs forecasting an in-year deficit in 2025. This confluence of fiscal pressure and policy momentum presents both a challenge and an opportunity, how can we deliver effective digital strategies that preserve teaching and learning standards while driving innovation? This session will explore practical approaches to implementing effective digital strategies while facing limited resources.
– In what ways can trusts collaborate across schools, through shared procurement, AI policy frameworks, or joint initiatives, to stretch resources further?
– How do we measure the value of digital investment beyond cost, capturing long-term, cultural, and relational benefits?
– What strategies help align stakeholders across the trust to see digital as an enabler of success rather than a cost centre?
9:45 am - 10:00 am

Main Room

Headline sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
10:05 am - 10:20 am

Main Room

Dragons' den - Speed presentations

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoi...

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoing challenges.
10:25 am - 11:15 am

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

10 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
11:20 am - 12:05 pm

Main Room

Case study – Leading the change: real classroom examples of tech integration

Jonathan Bishop

Chief Executive Officer
The Cornerstone Academy & Students

Technology is transforming teaching and learning at unprecedented speed, but are Multi-Academy Trusts leading the charge or playing catch-up? This session brings the classroom to the conference, featuring live student voices from The Cor...

Technology is transforming teaching and learning at unprecedented speed, but are Multi-Academy Trusts leading the charge or playing catch-up? This session brings the classroom to the conference, featuring live student voices from The Cornerstone Academy Trust. Students will share first-hand how total immersion in digital tools is shaping their learning, creativity, and preparation for the future. How can we reimagine the potential of digital transformation across trust and put students at the heart of innovation?
– Learn how The Cornerstone Academy Trust has built a trust-wide framework for digital adoption, balancing innovation with safeguarding, data protection, procurement, and teaching and learning oversight.
– Real classroom examples demonstrating how digital tools enhance engagement, assessment, and personalised learning.
– Hear directly from learners on what works, what challenges they face, and how technology empowers them.
12:05 pm - 12:20 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
12:20 pm - 12:35 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
12:35 pm - 1:10 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.
1:15 pm - 1:55 pm

Main Room

Interactive discussion – No one left behind: creating digital equity across trusts

Matt Harrison

Head of Digital
Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust

Gemma Lavin

Senior Director for Strategy and Innovation
Haberdashers' Academies Trust South

Emma Darcy

Director of Technology for Learning
Denbigh High School

With recent Government investment to close the digital divide in the classrooms, digital standards are now a requirement for all schools to ensure no learner is left behind. Digital technology has the power to transform learning, but une...

With recent Government investment to close the digital divide in the classrooms, digital standards are now a requirement for all schools to ensure no learner is left behind. Digital technology has the power to transform learning, but unequal access to devices, connectivity, and digital skills can widen educational gaps. For MATs, ensuring digital equity is no longer optional; it is central to safeguarding student outcomes, meeting inspection expectations, and fulfilling the trust’s mission. This session combines insights from expert speakers with small group conversations to explore how leaders can embed equity into digital strategy, policy, and practice across their schools.
– How can MATs assess and map digital disparities across their schools to target interventions effectively?
– How do trusts develop staff capacity and technical abilities to deliver inclusive digital pedagogy that accounts for varying student needs?
– How can MATs measure the impact of digital inclusion initiatives beyond access, towards engagement, achievement, and student wellbeing?
2:05 pm - 2:20 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

Interested in sponsoring?
2:25 pm - 2:40 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

Interested in sponsoring?
2:45 pm - 3:35 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

10 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
3:40 pm - 4:20 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – From pilot to practice: AI governance, ethics and digital maturity

Zaitoon Bukhari is the Director of Digital Learning at Achievement Through Collaboration MultiAcademy Trust, where she spearheads the integration of technology into the very heart of the learning experience. A passionate advocate for education, Zaitoon’s mission is to empower both teachers and students through the strategic use of digital tools.
Zaitoon is currently leading the charge in implementing the Trust’s Digital Strategy, a bold vision for a unified educational platform that fosters collaboration, eases staff burdens, and elevates pedagogical expertise. Her work transcends individual schools, weaving technology into the very fabric of the Trust, creating a seamless and interconnected learning environment.
Driven by a deep understanding of both education and technology, Zaitoon brings a wealth of experience to the table. With over 14 years in the classroom and 6 years of dedicated EdTech expertise, she is a Google Certified Trainer, Google Certified Innovator, and Google Certified Coach and the Silver Winner for Digital Innovator 2024 by the Pearson National Teaching Awards. This diverse skill set allows her to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring the effective implementation of digital solutions that truly benefit students and teachers alike.
Zaitoon’s leadership extends beyond the confines of the Trust. She has also worked as the UK Training Lead for two of Google for Education PD Partners, where she shares her knowledge and expertise with educators across the country. This dedication to professional development underscores her commitment to building a strong and vibrant community of educators who leverage technology to unlock the full potential of learning.
Zaitoon is not simply a Director of Digital Learning; she is a visionary leader, a passionate educator, and a champion for the transformative power of technology in education. Her dedication to creating a future where technology empowers, not replaces, human connection is paving the way for a more collaborative, engaging, and effective learning experience for all.

Zaitoon Bukhari

Director of Digital Education
Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

As Director for Digital Learning at LEO Academy Trust, Cheryl Shirley leads digital strategy and empowers nearly 5,000 pupils with future-ready computing skills. She provides expert support to leaders and teachers in implementing effective digital practices within the classroom. Her leadership extends to supporting other schools and Multi Academy Trusts in their digital journeys. Cheryl’s expertise has been recognised with a Pearson Silver Award for Digital Innovator of the Year in 2022. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching and holds a National Professional Qualification in Headship.

Cheryl Shirley

Director Digital Learning
LEO Academy Trust

Christian Turton

Educational Technology Lead
Chiltern Learning Trust

AI in education is no longer a distant possibility; it’s already reshaping teaching practices and learning experiences. It is critical that MAT leaders move beyond the question of if AI will impact education to how they will strategica...

AI in education is no longer a distant possibility; it’s already reshaping teaching practices and learning experiences. It is critical that MAT leaders move beyond the question of if AI will impact education to how they will strategically guide that transformation. This panel discussion will explore successful digital transformation case studies, focusing on AI adoption amongst staff and students, building collaborative networks with other institutions, and establishing digital governance. What are the practical challenges associated with moving on from AI pilot projects to institution-wide digital maturity?
– What does current guidance say about ethical AI use and digital governance within the classroom and in assessments?
– How can trusts account for the accelerating pace of AI innovation while embedding policy into existing governance structures and operational procedures?
– How do we stay up to date with how students are using AI tools?
4:20 pm - 4:25 pm

Main Room

Focus groups

Join us for an engaging and interactive focus group session designed to create meaningful dialogue around some of the most pressing challenges facing MATs today. Each session will begin with a brief presentation by expert speakers to set...

Join us for an engaging and interactive focus group session designed to create meaningful dialogue around some of the most pressing challenges facing MATs today. Each session will begin with a brief presentation by expert speakers to set the stage for discussion. Following the introduction, speakers will facilitate conversation and encourage attendees to share their own experiences, ask questions and explore solutions together.
5:00 pm - 5:05 pm

Main Room

Reflections and next actions/commitments
5:05 pm - 5:45 pm

Main Room

Networking drinks reception
4:25 pm - 4:55 pm

Focus Group 1

Learning to build trust-wide digital literacy and teacher empowerment

Osi Ejiofor

Educational Technologist
United Learning

Trusts often operate with a patchwork of legacy systems, creating silos that impede efficiency, collaboration and data-driven decision making. Consolidation of these systems and the integration of platforms is increasingly important in s...

Trusts often operate with a patchwork of legacy systems, creating silos that impede efficiency, collaboration and data-driven decision making. Consolidation of these systems and the integration of platforms is increasingly important in streamlining operations and improving governance to support teaching and learning across the trust. How can we transform disparate IT environments into efficient, future-proof platforms? This session will examine:
– Practical approaches to unifying systems for finance, HR, learning management, assessment, and safeguarding.
– Balancing cost, disruption, and long-term benefits when replacing or consolidating legacy infrastructure.
– Understanding the operational and strategic risks of fragmented IT environments.
4:25 pm - 4:55 pm

Focus Group 2

Response without disruption: effective cybersecurity strategies

Andy Meighen

Chief Information Officer
Future Academies

MATs are prime targets for cyberattacks, and 2025 has already seen an increase in sophisticated, well-funded threats. The latest Academy Trust Handbook emphasises the need for strong cyber hygiene and robust recovery plans to protect sch...

MATs are prime targets for cyberattacks, and 2025 has already seen an increase in sophisticated, well-funded threats. The latest Academy Trust Handbook emphasises the need for strong cyber hygiene and robust recovery plans to protect school and trust data without disrupting learning. Critical questions continue to surround what guidance exists to strengthen defences, protect sensitive data and ensure resilience in a sometimes-hostile digital environment. This session will explore:
Practical strategies to secure IT systems across multiple schools.
How to implement recovery plans that minimise disruption and risk.
Approaches to achieving high-level security even on constrained budgets.
4:25 pm - 4:55 pm

Focus Group 3

Breaking barriers to inclusive education with digital tools

Lisa Thompson

Head of Digital, Data and Technology
Liberty Academy Trust

Liz Wood

Interim Principal and Digital Champion
Liberty Academy Trust

Recent data shows that nearly one in five pupils in England now has identified Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with a 31.2% increase in numbers since 2016. That sharp rise underscores the urgent need for inclusive, equ...

Recent data shows that nearly one in five pupils in England now has identified Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with a 31.2% increase in numbers since 2016. That sharp rise underscores the urgent need for inclusive, equitable approaches across all trusts. Digital tools offer a powerful, yet under-exploited, opportunity to embed inclusion into everyday learning. This session will explore how MATs can harness technology not just as an add-on, but as a core driver of whole-trust strategy for SEND support.
– How everyday digital tools, from assistive software to adaptive learning platforms, can make learning accessible for SEND students.
– The role of upskilling and supporting staff to feel confident in delivering high-quality SEND support using digital tools.
– The potential impact when digital upskilling is delivered at scale.

Day 1

MATPN DIGITAL AGENDA

21st May 2026, DoubleTree Hilton, Tower of London

MATPN DIGITAL AGENDA

21 May 2026

8:00 am - 9:00 am

Main Room

Registration

9:00 am - 9:05 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

Zaitoon Bukhari

Director of Digital Education Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

9:05 am - 9:45 am

Main Room

Opening keynote panel –Handling digital transformation in the face of rapid change and limited budgets

Lisa Hawker

Director of Operations ARK Schools

Dave Smith

Director of Procurement and Trust-wide Projects Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust

Sarah Baber

Chief Executive Officer Great Learners Trust

Andrew Harris

Chief Information Officer Halliard Trust

9:45 am - 10:00 am

Main Room

Headline sponsor presentation

10:05 am - 10:20 am

Main Room

Dragons' den - Speed presentations

10:25 am - 11:15 am

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

11:20 am - 12:05 pm

Main Room

Case study – Leading the change: real classroom examples of tech integration

Jonathan Bishop

Chief Executive Officer The Cornerstone Academy & Students

12:05 pm - 12:20 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

12:20 pm - 12:35 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

12:35 pm - 1:10 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

1:15 pm - 1:55 pm

Main Room

Interactive discussion – No one left behind: creating digital equity across trusts

Matt Harrison

Head of Digital Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust

Gemma Lavin

Senior Director for Strategy and Innovation Haberdashers' Academies Trust South

Emma Darcy

Director of Technology for Learning Denbigh High School

2:05 pm - 2:20 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

2:25 pm - 2:40 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

2:45 pm - 3:35 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

3:40 pm - 4:20 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – From pilot to practice: AI governance, ethics and digital maturity

Zaitoon Bukhari

Director of Digital Education Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

Cheryl Shirley

Director Digital Learning LEO Academy Trust

Christian Turton

Educational Technology Lead Chiltern Learning Trust

4:20 pm - 4:25 pm

Main Room

Focus groups

5:00 pm - 5:05 pm

Main Room

Reflections and next actions/commitments

5:05 pm - 5:45 pm

Main Room

Networking drinks reception

Director of Digital Education
Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

Director of Operations
ARK Schools

Director of Procurement and Trust-wide Projects
Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Great Learners Trust

Chief Information Officer
Halliard Trust

Chief Executive Officer
The Cornerstone Academy & Students

Head of Digital
Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust

Senior Director for Strategy and Innovation
Haberdashers' Academies Trust South

Director of Technology for Learning
Denbigh High School

Director of Digital Education
Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

Director Digital Learning
LEO Academy Trust

Educational Technology Lead
Chiltern Learning Trust

Educational Technologist
United Learning

Chief Information Officer
Future Academies

Head of Digital, Data and Technology
Liberty Academy Trust

Interim Principal and Digital Champion
Liberty Academy Trust