This breakout explores the view - based on John West Burnhams work - that schools and trusts are most effective when they operate as communities, not just organisations focused on attainment. Drawing on research and real-world examples, it will examine why narrow approaches to school improvement miss the wider social, relational and personal factors that shape learning and equity. The session will include inputs from Asset Education Trust on how they have incorporated those values and principles into day to day practice, with a particular focus on placing community at the heart of improvement. It will help you consider: the practical implications for leaders, including building social capital, strengthening relationships, increasing pupil agency, and rebalancing accountability with trust; leadership, curriculum and organisation through an “inside-out”, person-centred lens.

Malcolm Groves is the Managing Director of Schools of Tomorrow. Jacqueline Bircham is the CEO at ASSET Education.