Collaborative Improvement for All Academies

At Sussex Learning Trust (SLT), we believe every academy has strengths to share and a responsibility to support all children across the Trust. Regardless of previous inspection outcomes, all schools are valued equally and receive tailored support to continually raise standards.

Proportionate and Responsive Support

Each academy benefits from an annual core package of improvement activities. Where greater needs arise, such as underperformance or urgent challenges, we provide additional focused resources to ensure rapid progress without creating unsustainable dependency.

Strong Local Governance with Strategic Oversight

Local Governing Bodies (LGBs) and Headteachers enjoy significant autonomy, supported by clear Trust frameworks. The Trust’s Senior Executive Team (including the CEO and Deputy CEO) works closely with schools, line-managing Headteachers to provide expert advice, challenge, and coordinate improvement initiatives.

Key Priorities for Every Academy

SLT expects all academies to:

  • Maintain a safe and supportive learning environment

  • Achieve strong educational outcomes

  • Operate within their agreed budgets

Self-Evaluation and Improvement Planning

Academies regularly review their performance across leadership, education quality, behaviour, safeguarding, and overall effectiveness. These reviews guide bespoke Academy Development Plans focused on delivering outstanding outcomes through a broad and rich curriculum.

Immediate and Strategic Intervention

Where urgent issues threaten student outcomes, SLT provides intensive short-term support to stabilise the situation, while implementing longer-term strategic plans to prevent future problems.

Peer Collaboration and Shared Expertise

Our academies work together through regular meetings, peer reviews, and shared professional development. This reciprocal model strengthens all schools, promotes best practice, and fosters a collaborative Trust-wide culture.

Proven Track Record and Central Support

SLT’s experienced education leaders actively support school improvement. We provide a range of standard and bespoke services funded through annual partnership contributions, ensuring consistent, high-quality support across the Trust.