MATPN NORTH 2026 AGENDA

MATPN is a unique, two-day 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.

5 - 6 March, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

Day 1
Day 2

05 March 2026

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration
8:45 am - 8:55 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

John Murphy

Education Leadership Mentor
Adviser and Public Speaker

As the education system continues to evolve, Multi Academy Trusts face growing pressures to deliver improved outcomes, financial sustainability, and operational excellence, all whilst navigating shifting policies and complex system-wide ...

As the education system continues to evolve, Multi Academy Trusts face growing pressures to deliver improved outcomes, financial sustainability, and operational excellence, all whilst navigating shifting policies and complex system-wide challenges.
MATPN North is a two-day, invitation-only event designed exclusively for MAT leaders at the highest level, bringing together CEOs, COOs, CFOs, and key decision makers from across the UK to collaborate, connect, and take strategic action.
By showcasing real-world case studies from leading trusts and creating space for candid, solution-focused conversations, MATPN North dives deep into the most pressing challenges facing MATs today, from workforce development and centralisation to digital strategy, growth planning, and school improvement.
This essential event facilitates powerful peer-to-peer learning and direct engagement with carefully curated solution providers, giving MAT leaders access to the tools, partnerships, and actionable insights needed to drive meaningful change.
Together, we’re shaping the future of Multi Academy Trusts: building stronger systems, empowering school communities, and securing better outcomes for every child.
8:55 am - 9:15 am

Main Room

Keynote presentation – Building resilient trusts: the future of MAT leadership

Richard Sheriff

Chief Executive Officer
Red Kite Learning Trust

Explore how leaders can build resilient, adaptable MATs capable of navigating current challenges such as funding cuts, staffing shortages, and increased scrutiny. The session will emphasise the importance of a forward-thinking leadership...

Explore how leaders can build resilient, adaptable MATs capable of navigating current challenges such as funding cuts, staffing shortages, and increased scrutiny. The session will emphasise the importance of a forward-thinking leadership approach to ensure long-term sustainability. Discuss:

– Leadership strategies for future-proofing your MAT.
– Partnerships across institutions for increased student outcomes.
– Developing a cohesive vision for trust-wide growth while addressing local challenges.
– The role of governance in ensuring resilience and sustainability.
– Key leadership traits that will define the future of MAT leadership.
9:15 am - 9:35 am

Main Room

Keynote presentation – Narrowing the disadvantage gap: strategies for MATs

Sir John Townsley

Chief Executive Officer
The GORSE Academies Trust

The disadvantage gap continues to be the most pressing challenge in the UK education system. This session will explore the most effective ways MATs can work to close the disadvantage gap and ensure every student has the opportunity to su...

The disadvantage gap continues to be the most pressing challenge in the UK education system. This session will explore the most effective ways MATs can work to close the disadvantage gap and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Explore:

– The impact of the disadvantage gap on academic performance and future opportunities for students.

– Evidence-based interventions to develop support networks for both students and families.

– The role of personalised learning and practical approaches to effectively differentiate learning.

– The importance of a school culture that sets high expectations for all students and ensures that inclusion and diversity are at the heart of every school’s ethos.
9:40 am - 10:00 am

Main Room

Headline sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
10:00 am - 10:40 am

Main Room

Dragons' Den - Speed presentations

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a short pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoing challenges.
10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 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.
12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Partnering for success: how MATs and the Department of Education can transform student outcomes

Vicky Beer

Regional Director for North West
Department of Education

Explore how MATs can work collaboratively with the Department of Education to maximize impact across schools. Discuss aligning MAT priorities with regional and national education policy to deliver increased attendance and attainment, nar...

Explore how MATs can work collaboratively with the Department of Education to maximize impact across schools. Discuss aligning MAT priorities with regional and national education policy to deliver increased attendance and attainment, narrow the disadvantage gap and ensure school readiness in young children.
12:55 pm - 1:15 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

Interested in sponsoring?
1:15 pm - 2:05 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

15 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.
2:10 pm - 2:50 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – Recruitment and retention strategies: building a sustainable workforce in MATs

Susie Babar

Chief People Officer
E-ACT

Shane Ierston

Chief Executive Officer
The Great Schools Trust

Danielle Lewis-Egonu

Chief Executive Officer
Cygnus Academies Trust

Panel discussion – Recruitment and retention strategies: building a sustainable workforce in MATs
2:55 pm - 3:40 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

Interested in sponsoring?
3:45 pm - 5:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 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.
5:05 pm - 5:25 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
5:25 pm - 6:05 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion: How to become a school of first choice

Kerry Inscker

Interim Chief Executive Officer
Shaw Education Trust

Michelle Rosemond

Director of Brand & Marketing
REAch2 Academy Trust

Gavin Booth

Chief Executive Officer
Infinity Academy Trust

In today’s competitive education landscape, attracting and retaining students is critical for the long-term success of any school or MAT. This panel will explore the strategies and actions MAT leaders can implement to ensure their ...

In today’s competitive education landscape, attracting and retaining students is critical for the long-term success of any school or MAT. This panel will explore the strategies and actions MAT leaders can implement to ensure their schools stand out and are seen as the top choice for students and parents. Discuss key questions such as:

– How do you build a positive reputation that resonates with the community and makes your school the first choice for parents?
– What role does strategic marketing play in making your school the school of first choice?
– What are parents looking for when choosing a school for their children, and how can MATs align their offerings to meet these expectations?
– How do schools differentiate themselves from others in the area such as through specialised programmes?
– How can schools use technology to enhance their educational offerings and become more appealing to prospective students and parents?
– How important is community involvement in becoming a school of first choice?
6:05 pm - 6:10 pm

Main Room

Chair's closing remarks
6:10 pm - 7:30 pm

Main Room

Hotel check-in/free time
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Main Room

Drinks reception and networking dinner

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served i...

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served in formal-style seating to a set menu. Our delegate team will speak to you to ensure we cater for any specific dietary requirements.
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Breakout Room 1

School improvement with heart

Michael McCarthy

Chief Executive Officer
Consilium Academies

Now 1 year in as CEO of Consilium Academies, Michael will explore how school trusts can drive rapid improvement without leaving disadvantaged students behind. Focusing on a values-driven, people-first approach, he’ll discuss strategies...

Now 1 year in as CEO of Consilium Academies, Michael will explore how school trusts can drive rapid improvement without leaving disadvantaged students behind. Focusing on a values-driven, people-first approach, he’ll discuss strategies to raise standards, improve attendance, and achieve strong outcomes, all while ensuring that every child, including those who have struggled elsewhere, is supported and included.
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Breakout Room 2

Innovative practices in SEND and inclusion

Anthony Benedict

Chief Executive Officer
Ambition Community Trust

Explore how schools can create truly inclusive environments where every child can thrive. Drawing on real-world experience from a pioneering MAT, discover how relational approaches, early intervention in primary schools, and embedding in...

Explore how schools can create truly inclusive environments where every child can thrive. Drawing on real-world experience from a pioneering MAT, discover how relational approaches, early intervention in primary schools, and embedding inclusion into school culture, not just policies, can drive both equity and excellence.
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Breakout Room 3

Community collaborations for better student outcomes

Mark Mallender

Chief Executive Officer
Djanogly Learning Trust

Explore how schools can go beyond traditional teaching to address the broader needs of students and their families. Drawing on real-world examples, discover how community hubs in schools are providing vital services, from health checks a...

Explore how schools can go beyond traditional teaching to address the broader needs of students and their families. Drawing on real-world examples, discover how community hubs in schools are providing vital services, from health checks and vaccinations to nutritious meals and family engagement opportunities. Learn practical strategies for fostering partnerships with local agencies, creating inclusive and supportive school environments.

06 March 2026

9:00 am - 9:05 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

John Murphy

Education Leadership Mentor
Adviser and Public Speaker

Welcome back to MATPN North 2026
9:05 am - 9:45 am

Main Room

Fireside debate – “MATs should centralise governance to ensure quality.”

Ruth Agnew MBE

Chief Relationships and Engagement Officer
COOP Academies

Matt is the CEO The Rivers CofE Academy Trust and was appointed in September 2023. As one of the largest primary-specialist trusts in the West Midlands, the trust currently has sixteen good and outstanding primary, first and pre-schools and a thriving teaching alliance.

He has been a headteacher of two primary schools in the past and also held the position of director of education in a large multi-academy trust in the West Midlands, overseeing significant improvements in educational outcomes.

Matt was previously one of His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI), leading over seventy school inspections and multi-academy trust summary evaluations. During his time as an HMI, Matt was appointed by Ofsted as their National Lead for Physical Education.

Matt is a member of the Confederation of School Trust’s Policy Advisory Group and a board member for the University of Worcester’s ITT Strategic Governance Board.

Matt Meckin

Chief Executive Officer
Rivers CofE Academy Trust

This session will explore whether centralising governance within MATs is the best approach to maintaining and improving the quality of education. Advocates argue that centralisation ensures consistency, strategic alignment, and better re...

This session will explore whether centralising governance within MATs is the best approach to maintaining and improving the quality of education. Advocates argue that centralisation ensures consistency, strategic alignment, and better resource management across schools, while opponents emphasize the importance of local autonomy, flexibility, and the risks of overburdening central leadership. Attendees will hear compelling arguments for and against centralised governance and discuss its potential impact on the future of MATs.
9:45 am - 10:05 am

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

Interested in sponsoring?
10:10 am - 10:30 am

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

Interested in sponsoring?
10:35 am - 10:55 am

Main Room

Successfully merging and consolidating MATs for better outcomes
11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 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.
12:05 pm - 1:05 pm

Main Room

CEO-led round table discussions

Jonny Uttley

Chief Executive Officer
The Education Alliance

Oliver Burwood

Chief Executive Officer
Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust

Pam Hewitt

Chief Operating Officer
Pontefract

Joshua Coleman

Chief Executive Officer
East Midlands Academy Trust

Paul Wheeler

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
East Midlands Academy Trust

After graduating from Cambridge University, Tom completed his PGCE at theUniversity of East Anglia before working in a number of high performing privateschools as both a teacher and head of department. Tom has held the post of DeputyHeadteacher at two Outstanding schools, subsequently being appointedHeadteacher of one.
Having lead three schools as headteacher and two schools as Executive Principal,Tom has considerable experience in school leadership and management. He hasworked in senior leadership teams for four multi-academy groups and also hassignificant experience around rapid school improvement having been seconded bytwo local authority ‘School Improvement’ teams to support schools causing concern.
Tom is accredited as a National Leader of Education (NLE) and a member of theDepartment for Education (DfE) regional advisory board for the West Midlands.
Mr Leverage is passionate about Catholic education and has dedicated much of hiscareer to the advancement of Catholic schools. He took up the post as CatholicSenior Executive Leader in 2021

Tom Leverage

Chief Executive Officer
Reach South Academy Trust

Abby Morris

Chief Education Officer Deputy CEO
Core Education Trust

Jacqueline Bircham

Deputy Chief Executive Officer: Schools, Strategy and Operation
ASSET Education Trust

John Hunt

Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer & Group Chief Financial Officer
London South East Academies Trust

Jackie Waters-Dewhurst

Chief Executive Officer
Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust

Harry Paget-Wall Collins

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Gallery Trust

1: Shaping the Future: Supporting Education Policy Reform
Identify the ways in which MAT leaders can prepare for and support potential policy changes and discuss strategies for engaging with government, regional authorities, and ...

1: Shaping the Future: Supporting Education Policy Reform
Identify the ways in which MAT leaders can prepare for and support potential policy changes and discuss strategies for engaging with government, regional authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure policies reflect the realities of schools and pupils’ needs to drive meaningful change and create a system that better supports all learners.
Jonny Uttley, CEO, The Education Alliance

2: School Improvement on a Shoestring: Balancing Finances and Impact
Discuss how to drive meaningful school improvement while managing tight budgets. Explore approaches to prioritise spending, rebuild finances, and make cost-effective decisions that directly impact teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
Oliver Burwood CEO Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT)

3: Staff Retention & Recruitment: Creating an Environment Where People Want to Join & Stay
Discuss creative and effective ways to attract high-quality candidates and build a strong talent pipeline and identify strategies for improving retention, from professional development opportunities to fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Pam Hewitt, Chief Operating Officer, Pontefract

4: Wellbeing and Mental Health: Supporting Staff and Student Wellbeing in MATs
Explore initiatives to support staff and student mental health, as well as the role of leadership in fostering a culture of care.
Joshua Coleman, Chief Executive Officer, East Midlands Academy Trust
Paul Wheeler, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, East Midlands Academy Trust

5: Mergers and Acquisitions: Challenges and Opportunities for MATs
Discuss the benefits and potential pitfalls of mergers and acquisitions in MATs, how to manage integration effectively, and the strategic considerations involved in such decisions.
Tom Leverage, CEO, Reach South

6: CPD That Works: Balancing Trust-Wide Strategy with School-Level Needs
Discuss practical approaches to designing continuous professional development that meets both individual school priorities and trust-wide strategic goals, ensuring staff growth translates into improved student outcomes.
Abby Morris, Chief Education Officer and Deputy CEO, Core Education Trust

7: Strengthening Schools Through Civic Partnerships
Discuss practical approaches for collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and leveraging local networks to make schools more resilient, connected and improve student outcomes.
Jacqueline Bircham, Deputy CEO: Schools, Strategy and Operation ASSET Education

8: Driving Sustainability in Schools: Balancing Net Zero Ambitions with Financial Constraints
Discuss how trusts can implement effective environmental strategies, reduce carbon footprints, and embed sustainability across schools while managing budget pressures.
John Hunt Group CFO and Deputy group CEO, London South East Academies Trust

9: Boosting Primary Enrolment: Strategies for Small Schools
Explore practical strategies for increasing primary school enrolment, particularly in smaller and rural schools. Leaders will discuss effective marketing, building strong partnerships with nurseries, creating symbiotic community relationships, and developing engaging, purpose-driven curricula that attract and retain students.
Jackie Waters-Dewhurst CEO, Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust

10: Bridging the Gap: Supporting SEND in Mainstream Schools
Discuss how targeted SEND training can help mainstream schools better support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities and explore how MATs can support system level change in the sector to bridge the SEND gap.
Harry Paget-Wall Collins Deputy CEO, Gallery Trust
1:05 pm - 1:25 pm

Main Room

Closing remarks and future outlook

Our final session will summarise the key insights from the conference, providing a roadmap for MAT leaders to implement the strategies discussed over the two days. There will be a focus on how delegates can apply these lessons to address...

Our final session will summarise the key insights from the conference, providing a roadmap for MAT leaders to implement the strategies discussed over the two days. There will be a focus on how delegates can apply these lessons to address their own challenges and drive improvements within their MATs.

– Recap of the most actionable takeaways.
– Discussion on how to turn insights into tangible actions for MAT improvement.
– Final thoughts on the future direction of MAT leadership.
1:25 pm - 2:00 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch
10:35 am - 10:55 am

Breakout Room 1

Thriving in a complex environment: innovative approaches to SEND provision

Warren Carratt

Chief Executive Officer
The Nexus MAT

Explore practical strategies for navigating the complex SEND landscape. Discover how this trust is bridging the gap between mainstream and special schools, creating integrated resources, and using independent provision to meet rising dem...

Explore practical strategies for navigating the complex SEND landscape. Discover how this trust is bridging the gap between mainstream and special schools, creating integrated resources, and using independent provision to meet rising demand, all while maintaining financial health and high educational standards.
10:35 am - 10:55 am

Breakout Room 2

Retaining staff in a challenging environment

Louise Lee

Chief Executive Officer
The Howard Partnership Trust

Explore practical strategies for keeping talented staff engaged and motivated in today’s demanding education landscape. Learn how to build a supportive culture, invest in professional development, and implement retention-focused initia...

Explore practical strategies for keeping talented staff engaged and motivated in today’s demanding education landscape. Learn how to build a supportive culture, invest in professional development, and implement retention-focused initiatives that reduce turnover while sustaining school performance.
10:35 am - 10:55 am

Breakout Room 3

Building partnerships with local communities and the NHS

Dawn Haywood

Chief Executive Officer
Windsor Academy Trust

Explore how schools and NHS Trusts can work together to support the whole child, from physical health to mental wellbeing. This session highlights practical strategies, real-world examples, and lessons learned from successful partnership...

Explore how schools and NHS Trusts can work together to support the whole child, from physical health to mental wellbeing. This session highlights practical strategies, real-world examples, and lessons learned from successful partnerships that improve student outcomes and strengthen community ties.

Day 1
Day 2

MATPN NORTH 2026 AGENDA

5 - 6 March, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

05 March 2026

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration

8:45 am - 8:55 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

John Murphy

Education Leadership Mentor Adviser and Public Speaker

8:55 am - 9:15 am

Main Room

Keynote presentation – Building resilient trusts: the future of MAT leadership

Richard Sheriff

Chief Executive Officer Red Kite Learning Trust

9:15 am - 9:35 am

Main Room

Keynote presentation – Narrowing the disadvantage gap: strategies for MATs

Sir John Townsley

Chief Executive Officer The GORSE Academies Trust

9:40 am - 10:00 am

Main Room

Headline sponsor presentation

10:00 am - 10:40 am

Main Room

Dragons' Den - Speed presentations

10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Partnering for success: how MATs and the Department of Education can transform student outcomes

Vicky Beer

Regional Director for North West Department of Education

12:55 pm - 1:15 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

1:15 pm - 2:05 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

2:10 pm - 2:50 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – Recruitment and retention strategies: building a sustainable workforce in MATs

Susie Babar

Chief People Officer E-ACT

Shane Ierston

Chief Executive Officer The Great Schools Trust

Danielle Lewis-Egonu

Chief Executive Officer Cygnus Academies Trust

2:55 pm - 3:40 pm

Main Room

Gold sponsor presentations

3:45 pm - 5:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

5:05 pm - 5:25 pm

Main Room

Platinum sponsor presentation

5:25 pm - 6:05 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion: How to become a school of first choice

Kerry Inscker

Interim Chief Executive Officer Shaw Education Trust

Michelle Rosemond

Director of Brand & Marketing REAch2 Academy Trust

Gavin Booth

Chief Executive Officer Infinity Academy Trust

6:05 pm - 6:10 pm

Main Room

Chair's closing remarks

6:10 pm - 7:30 pm

Main Room

Hotel check-in/free time

7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Main Room

Drinks reception and networking dinner

Education Leadership Mentor
Adviser and Public Speaker

Chief Executive Officer
Red Kite Learning Trust

Chief Executive Officer
The GORSE Academies Trust

Regional Director for North West
Department of Education

Chief People Officer
E-ACT

Chief Executive Officer
The Great Schools Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Cygnus Academies Trust

Interim Chief Executive Officer
Shaw Education Trust

Director of Brand & Marketing
REAch2 Academy Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Infinity Academy Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Consilium Academies

Chief Executive Officer
Ambition Community Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Djanogly Learning Trust

Education Leadership Mentor
Adviser and Public Speaker

Chief Relationships and Engagement Officer
COOP Academies

Chief Executive Officer
Rivers CofE Academy Trust

Chief Executive Officer
The Education Alliance

Chief Executive Officer
Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust

Chief Operating Officer
Pontefract

Chief Executive Officer
East Midlands Academy Trust

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
East Midlands Academy Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Reach South Academy Trust

Chief Education Officer Deputy CEO
Core Education Trust

Deputy Chief Executive Officer: Schools, Strategy and Operation
ASSET Education Trust

Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer & Group Chief Financial Officer
London South East Academies Trust

Chief Executive Officer
Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Gallery Trust