Our Trust has grown through open conversations, shared values and a belief that schools are strongest when they work together. Schools choose to join Odyssey Collaborative Trust because they recognise that collaboration provides greater security, resilience and opportunity for pupils, staff and the communities they serve.

We understand that every school is unique. Our approach to partnership respects each school's identity, context and community while providing the stability, expertise and support that help schools navigate an increasingly complex educational landscape.

What being part of the Trust means

Schools within Odyssey Collaborative Trust are part of a locally rooted family of schools, united by a common commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

At its heart, the Trust provides a protective structure around schools and their leaders. We believe headteachers are best placed to lead their schools, shape their culture and understand the needs of their communities. The role of the Trust is to stand alongside them, providing the expertise, capacity and collective strength that make this leadership sustainable.

Being part of the Trust offers:

• The security and resilience that comes from belonging to a strong family of schools
• Access to specialist expertise across education, finance, governance, estates, safeguarding, inclusion and operations
• A central team that works in service of headteachers, helping them address challenges and make the most of opportunities
• Professional collaboration that enables leaders and staff to learn from one another
• Operational support that reduces administrative burden and protects leaders' time for pupils, staff and school improvement
• Collective strength when responding to change, challenge or periods of uncertainty

We believe schools flourish when headteachers can focus on educational leadership, confident that they are supported by colleagues who share responsibility for the wider demands of running a successful organisation.

A values-led approach to growth

Our approach to growth is careful, considered and rooted in shared values. We seek to work with schools that share our commitment to collaboration, inclusion and providing the highest quality education for every child.

Any potential partnership is built on mutual understanding, trust and transparency. We understand that joining a Trust is a significant decision, and we believe schools should have the time and space to explore whether partnership would strengthen their future.

Throughout the process, conversations focus not only on what a school might gain from joining the Trust, but also on how we can serve and support its leaders, staff and community.

The process of joining our Trust

Joining Odyssey Collaborative Trust follows a clear process centred on dialogue, partnership and community engagement.This usually includes:

An Initial discussion
An informal conversation to understand your school's context, priorities and aspirations, and to explore whether there is a shared vision for the future.

Further exploration
Opportunities to meet Trust leaders, visit schools and gain a deeper understanding of how the Trust operates in practice and how central expertise supports school leaders.

Consideration and due diligence
Potential partnerships are considered by Trustees. Where appropriate, a due diligence process helps both the school and the Trust understand how a partnership would support long-term success and sustainability.

Consultation with stakeholders
A formal consultation involving staff, governors, parents and the wider community. We spend time listening, answering questions and ensuring stakeholders understand both the opportunities and responsibilities of joining the Trust.

Decision and transition
Following consultation and the necessary approvals, the school applies for an Academy Order. The Trust works alongside school leaders throughout the transition process, ensuring continuity and providing support from day one.

At every stage, the focus remains firmly on what is right for pupils, staff and the wider school community.

If you are considering your school's future and would like to explore whether joining Odyssey Collaborative Trust could be the right next step, we would welcome a conversation. Initial discussions provide an opportunity to share priorities, ask questions and consider how the Trust's collective strength, specialist expertise and commitment to serving headteachers might support your school's long-term success.