We are committed to working closely with civic partners as part of a wider system approach, recognising that strong outcomes for children and young people rely on effective collaboration beyond individual schools. This includes working alongside local authorities, health services, and community organisations to ensure joined up support for pupils and families.

Our approach is rooted in professional generosity, with a strong belief in sharing expertise, learning from others, and contributing to the collective strengths of the system. We actively engage in local networks and partnerships, while also connecting with colleagues and organisations at a national level.

Through this shared commitment to mutual support, we aim to both contribute to and benefit from wider system work, ensuring that our schools are outward facing, responsive, and part of a strong, connected educational community.

Our Partnerships

We work with a wide range of organisations locally and nationally to support our schools and communities, including:

• Confederation of School Trusts
• Chartered College of Teaching
• No Place for Hate Derby
• Derby Community Trust Inclusion Partnership
• East Midlands West Maths Hub
• Derby Research School
• Derby City Local Authority and Families First partnership
• Derby University and other education providers, schools, and trusts
• Local charities including Aspire Food Hub, The Padley Centre, Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre, Aquarius, and Bells of St Mary’s
• Cultural organisations such as Derby Book Festival, Hallé Orchestra, Derbion Christmas Choir, and Derby Music Hub
• Sports and health organisations including Derby Community Trust, Cycle Derby, and Derby County Community programmes
• Local businesses including Rolls Royce, Severn Trent Water, Birds Bakery, East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, and Our Future
• A range of faith and belief organisations including churches, mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras, mandirs, The Open Centre, and the Humanist Society

These partnerships strengthen our work across the Trust, helping us to support pupils and families, enrich learning, and remain closely connected to the communities we serve.