Our Trust has grown through open conversations and shared values, with schools choosing to work together because they recognise that collective strength and strong local partnerships lead to better outcomes for pupils, staff and the communities they serve.

We recognise that every school is unique. Our approach to partnership respects each school’s identity, context and community, while offering strong and flexible support that helps schools thrive now and into the future.

What being part of the Trust means

Schools within Odyssey Collaborative Trust are part of a supportive family of schools, working together to improve outcomes for pupils and create positive professional environments for staff.

Being part of the Trust offers:

• A strong sense of belonging within a locally rooted family of schools
• Access to shared expertise and professional collaboration
• Central support that strengthens leadership, teaching and learning
• Practical operational support that enables schools to focus on what matters most

We believe schools are strongest when they work together, drawing on collective knowledge and experience while continuing to serve their communities in distinctive and meaningful ways.

A values led approach to growth

Our approach to growth is careful, considered and rooted in shared values. We are interested in working with schools where there is a clear commitment to collaboration and a shared ambition to provide high quality education for all pupils.

Any potential partnership is shaped by mutual understanding, trust and transparency. Throughout the process, both the school and the Trust have time to explore whether working together would be the right next step.

The process of joining our trust

Joining Odyssey Collaborative Trust follows a clear process that places dialogue, inclusion and community voice at its heart.

This usually includes:

• Initial discussion
  An informal conversation to share information about the Trust, understand a school’s context and explore whether values and priorities align.
• Further exploration
  If there is shared interest, this stage allows for deeper discussion about how the Trust operates and the support available.
• Consideration and due diligence
  Potential partnerships are considered by the Trustees. Where appropriate, a due diligence process is undertaken to ensure that the partnership would be beneficial and sustainable.
• Consultation with stakeholders
  A formal consultation takes place, involving staff, governors, parents and the wider community. The Trust spends time in school to listen, answer questions and engage openly.
• Decision and transition
  Following consultation and a final decision by governors, the school applies for an Academy Order. The Trust supports the school throughout transition and beyond.

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

If you are considering your school’s future and would like to explore whether joining Odyssey Collaborative Trust could be a positive next step, we would welcome a conversation. Initial discussions provide an opportunity to ask questions, share priorities and consider how a partnership might work in practice.