On Tuesday 10 February, colleagues and pupils from our trust took part in a Sheffield conference as the sole expert panel, having been specifically invited by the Department for Education to contribute directly to national thinking ahead of the forthcoming White Paper and wider education reform.
We were invited to speak directly to over 130 policy makers and delivery leads responsible for curriculum, qualifications and digital strategy across primary and secondary education. This was a significant opportunity to influence national direction and a clear recognition of the esteem in which our trust is held.
Our panel brought together leaders and pupils from across our schools: Neil Miley, Dominic Riddler (Assistant Head, Mercia School), Ben Merritt (Head of MFL, King Ecgbert School), Michele Nott (Executive Primary Headteacher, Nether Edge Primary School), and four Year 13 pupils, Gabriella and Jack (King Ecgbert School), and Priscilla and Alban (Mercia School). Together, we shared honest reflections on what is working in education, what needs to improve, and what matters most for pupils and staff.
We spoke about the importance of strong digital and AI support for teachers, protecting curriculum breadth, minimising specification changes, and ensuring disadvantaged pupils are properly supported. Our pupils powerfully articulated the mental load young people carry and reminded policymakers that schools must not become exam factories, but places where individuals are nurtured, challenged and prepared for life beyond qualifications.
Our Year 13 pupils represented our trust – and young voices nationwide – with maturity, clarity and confidence. Their thoughtful contributions will directly inform national policy discussions.
The session provided a meaningful opportunity to shape future decisions, and is a testament to the strength, professionalism and values across our trust. Moments like this remind us that our collective voice matters.