Trusting Values – Greensand Multi Academy Trust Biennial Collaboration Day
- Why collaboration and shared values are at the heart of successful trusts
- How investing in our staff and giving them space to relax and connect enhances effectiveness
- What we learnt during our day of collaboration
On Friday 14th February we held our fourth whole-trust INSET day. Approximately 600 members of staff from across our 10 schools attended and rotated around three sessions, with opportunities to mingle with colleagues and grab refreshments whilst transitioning to the different venues. The three sessions were:
- Keynote address - AI in Education
- Workshop – Collaboration, support and challenge
- Wellbeing activities
The whole day was made possible by the hard work and dedication of some amazing people who planned, prepared, set up and ran the event so that everyone could enjoy. As a Trust our Collaboration days are an integral part of how we embrace our mission and values across our schools, from keynote speakers to silent discos, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Why are collaboration and shared values at the heart of successful trusts?
We all likely recognise and enjoy the benefits of working closely with our day-to-day colleagues but it can be harder to appreciate the advantages of being part of a larger team. Being in the same physical space with a big team fosters a sense of belonging, much like the feeling of attending a football match and being surrounded by fellow supporters. Physically bringing the whole workforce together strengthens relationships, enhances communication and reinforces a shared purpose. Ultimately, a trust built on collaboration and shared values becomes a thriving community where people support and elevate one another to step into their greatness.
Investing in our staff and giving them space to relax and connect enhances effectiveness
We recognise a healthy and happy workplace is an integral part of having a high-performing workforce and we want all our staff to step into their greatness by promoting a healthy, engaged and inclusive workplace culture. Health and wellbeing is at the centre of our employee engagement practices and is underpinned by physical and mental wellbeing initiatives. Consequently, on this day everyone chose from a range of workshops designed to support different facets of wellbeing.
What we learnt during our day of collaboration
Chris Goodall from The Bourne Education Trust delivered an engaging presentation focusing on the multifaceted world of AI in education. His talk was both informative and entertaining, striking a perfect balance between depth and accessibility. Chris expertly navigated the benefits and challenges of AI, ensuring that everyone, from novices to experts, found valuable insights. He highlighted how AI can revolutionise teaching methods, personalise learning experiences, and streamline administrative tasks, whilst also addressing potential ethical concerns and implementation hurdles. The presentation left people inspired and equipped with practical knowledge to harness AI's potential in their different roles.
Leadership Coach June Whittle and Greensand Deputy CEO Lloyd Murphy led an inspiring workshop with the opportunity to reflect, learn and have some fun with colleagues. June reminded us of the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who lift us higher. One powerful lesson came from geese—working together, supporting one another, and moving forward as a team. She asked us to reflect upon the work of Professor Richard Boyatzis, a psychologist, author and expert on emotional intelligence and intentional change theory. One key idea he shares is emotional contagion—the way our emotions spread through facial expressions, body language, tone of voice and even the words we use. An important reminder that we cannot not communicate — people are constantly picking up on our feelings, just as we are picking up on theirs.
Lloyd linked this to the message from two years ago about how to love our jobs by:
- Always Remember the Mission
- Be The Person You Would Want on your Team
- Putting team Before I
He shared how these concepts have been developed over the last two years into our Greensand Team Charter.
At Greensand, we believe that strong teams create exceptional environments where children, staff and schools can step into their greatness. Our 7-Ups define the values and behaviours that unite us in our shared commitment to collaboration, challenge and support. These principles guide us in everything we do, ensuring we support one another and contribute to a positive, inspiring culture.
