Joining Sussex Learning Trust

Becoming part of Sussex Learning Trust means joining a forward-thinking, collaborative community. Guided by a clear strategic plan for the next three to five years, we focus on sustainable growth and excellence. As we expand, we refine staffing structures and operating models to balance ambition with affordability, strengthening our central team along the way.

Our central team provides professional, cost-effective “back office” services to every academy within the Trust. These include:

• Capital and premises project management
• Financial and accountancy support
• HR and payroll services
• Facilities and grounds management
• Marketing and communications advice
• CPD coordination
• Digital ICT services support
• Procurement expertise

At the core of Sussex Learning Trust is a highly experienced leadership team, featuring National Leaders of Education (NLE) and National Leaders of Governance (NLG) who provide strategic oversight and expert guidance.

• Our education professionals, led by our CEO (an experienced Headteacher and NLE), include:
• Cross-phase support, especially during key transitions
• Outstanding practitioners in both primary and secondary phases
• High-calibre academy-based staff acting as consultants for targeted expertise
• Strong collaboration between academies and partner schools

If you’re considering joining Sussex Learning Trust, you’ll find a partnership rooted in collaboration, continuous improvement, and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for all students.

We believe every academy and pupil deserves the best of both worlds:

• Close-knit clusters of geographically connected schools, forming strong local networks for mutual support and challenge
• Access to the wider Sussex Learning Trust community, fostering shared expertise and collaboration across all academies

Our growth strategy is focused and deliberate. Rather than expanding nationally, we aim to grow organically within Sussex, creating three or four clusters of four to five schools each. Our secondary academies will support all clusters to maintain consistency, share best practice, and support staff and student development across the Trust.

To find out more about how we can support your school, and to explore the benefits of joining Sussex Learning Trust, please see the brochures below. We also have a video library all about joining Sussex Learning Trust.