Hear From Our Colleagues
Becoming an academy and joining a MAT is a huge decision for schools and for longstanding governors. However, there is clearly not going to be a reversal of the trajectory we are on and inevitably, more schools will become academies. I believed that there were a lot of good things going on at HPPS that I could still contribute to and walking away never felt like the right option. CMAT is a collaboration of schools, sharing similar values, experience and ideas. The ethos of the individual schools would be able to develop within it. That gave me the confidence that I could, in good conscience, continue as a governor and to contribute to making a difference to people’s lives.
CMAT is clearly about adding value. It will no doubt increase in size if like minded schools wish to join in. But from what we’ve experienced so far, I am convinced that will not divert from the benefits that a schools-led MAT can bring. While I have many years of governance experience, I feel I am still learning and being part of this MAT brings a new, positive dimension. So here I am, content to remain, and to play my part. I am genuinely excited for the future.
R Jobey
Headteacher
Joining Centurion Multi Academy Trust has been a hugely positive experience for Battle Hill Primary School. We have been able to keep our own identity and autonomy, which allows us to continue to meet the needs of our community, while gaining the fantastic opportunities that come with being part of a wider family of schools. The support, collaboration, networking, and professional development available through the Trust has been invaluable, opening doors for both staff progression and improved outcomes for our children
L Watts
Deputy Headteacher
Becoming part of Centurion Multi Academy Trust has truly broadened our team at Battle Hill Primary School. We’ve been able to draw on a wealth of experience and expertise across the Trust, with advice and support always on hand when needed. This collaborative approach has strengthened the offer and opportunities for the children and families in our school community.
K Claxton-Davy
School Business Manager
As a new School Business Manager, since joining Centurion Multi Academy Trust I have been welcomed into a positive and collaborative network where guidance is always available, and expertise is shared openly. The Trust encourages partnership whilst respecting each school’s individuality, bringing fantastic opportunities for both our staff and pupils.
Kirsty Bird
SENDCO, Denbigh Community Primary School
School Business Manager
We have been part of Centurion Multi-Academy trust for almost two years now. As a SENDCo, I have found being part of the trust both very exciting and rewarding. It is an opportunity to work collaboratively together, to share best practice and to support one another.
Mark Holt
Headteacher, Denbigh Primary School
Being part of Centurion Multi Academy Trust is a huge part of why I enjoy my job. As a Headteacher, the Trust offers me a level of support that I find invaluable and helps me achieve my vision for our school. There is an excellent ethos of collaboration between the trust schools to enable us to raise standards and ensure best practice. It is wonderful to be part of something bigger than our school while still having the independence and freedom to create a school that meets the needs of my whole school community.
Tim Jones
Headteacher, Spring Gardens Primary School
Being part of a Multi Academy Trust has been incredibly rewarding. The strong teamwork and genuine collaboration across schools have allowed us to share best practice, support one another, and drive real improvements for our students. Together, we’re achieving far more than we ever could alone.
Chris Bourke
Deputy Headteacher, Denbigh Primary School
Working within the Centurion Multi Academy Trust has enabled me to progress in my career and work on innovative projects that have an impact within my own school and across the MAT. The commitment to providing opportunities for children to thrive and remove any barriers to learning makes it a pleasure to come to work. I enjoy working alongside strategic leaders with excellent expertise to challenge and support as we continue to implement an engaging curriculum for all pupils to achieve.
Julie Marriot
CEO, Family Gateway
Working with Centurion MAT for us as a charity is exhilarating. The MAT is brave in its decision making, innovative in its thinking and open to new ways of working with a razor-sharp focus on the whole family unit in its quest to ensure the best education is afforded to its children. I expect to see throughout our working relationship increased outcomes for the whole family, which in turn will not only bring about excellent educational outcomes, but through partnership and a whole family approach, families themselves raising their own aspirations leading to much wider positive system impact bringing a significant return on investment
Carli Davison
Chair of Academy Education Board, Denbigh Community Primary School.
Our experience converting to a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) has been overwhelmingly positive. The transition itself was seamless, thanks to thorough planning and collaborative effort between our governing board and the trust. The MAT’s terms of reference were carefully drafted to ensure each school within the trust retained its unique ethos and character. We now benefit from the wider support and resources of the MAT whilst our school maintains its distinct identity and approach.
The move to a Local Academy Education Board has been a positive change, allowing governors to focus more specifically on the needs of our school, particularly in terms of curriculum development and improvement. This focused approach empowers us to better support school leaders in delivering a high-quality education tailored to our children.
Kate Wankowicz
Deputy Headteacher and SENCO, Spring Gardens Primary School
Being part of Centurion Multi Academy Trust has been transformative for the development of our Special Educational Needs provision. Through collaboration, shared expertise, and a clear strategic vision, we are strengthening the leadership of SEND across all our schools.
The trust has provided a supportive network that enables leaders to develop their practice and share innovative approaches to inclusive education. This collaborative culture has empowered us to identify and respond to children’s needs more effectively, ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to thrive. We have established a strong and robust network in which we can challenge and support each other, through auditing inclusive practice, learning from one another’s learning environment, and CPD opportunities for staff.
By working together, we’re creating consistent systems, improved pathways for early intervention, and embedding a shared commitment to inclusion. This is not only raising the quality of SEND leadership but is also having a tangible impact on children’s experiences and outcomes across the trust.
Dionne Thompson
HLTA, Hadrian Park Primary School
As part of the Centurion Trust, collaboration is at the core of what we do. Working alongside other schools within the trust allows us to share ideas, expertise, and best practice, ensuring the very best outcomes for all pupils. This sense of unity and teamwork extends beyond our own school gates and enriches everything we do.
Angi Gibson
Head Teacher, Hadrian Park Primary School
Working with Centurion Multi-Academy Trust has been an absolute pleasure. The wider team offers collaboration and support in abundance, creating an environment where innovation and professional growth truly thrive. What makes Centurion stand out is the balance; we can remain individual as a school, offering a bespoke service to our communities and families, whilst also benefiting from being part of a larger, highly supportive team. Their commitment to partnership, care for staff, and focus on excellence make Centurion a fantastic organisation to be part of.
Olivia Parker
Teacher, Hadrian Park Primary
Working within the Centurion Multi-Academy Trust has been incredibly rewarding. Being part of a wider network of schools allows us to share best practices, access high-quality professional development, and collaborate with passionate, like-minded educators. Whilst maintaining autonomy, the trust fosters a supportive and forward-thinking environment where innovation is encouraged, and staff wellbeing is genuinely valued. This collaborative approach not only benefits staff but also enhances the educational experience we provide for our pupils.
