At EPM, we've championed the power of connection, collaboration, and community in the education sector for over 30 years.
In the weeks since the announcement of the folding of MATA, we've heard one message loud and clear across the sector: there's a continued need for connection, for leadership support, and for a place where shared values and fresh thinking can thrive, particularly in a dual education system with equal proportions of Trusts and LA schools - all seeking to achieve educational excellence.
With this in mind, we're pleased to share that Matt McDermott, Founding Director of MATA, has joined EPM to support us in the development of a new, forward-thinking leadership network for the education sector that champions leaders, providing opportunities to connect, share best practices, and shape the future of education together. While the name and full details are being finalised...watch this space! What is clear is the opportunity to create something bold, inclusive, and sustainable that reflects the needs of school leaders today and tomorrow.
This new initiative will build on the best of what came before while going further to include voices from across the sector - including local authority schools - and address the issues at the forefront of education.
"I'm incredibly proud of what we built through MATA and deeply grateful for the relationships that came from there; it has been an unforgettable few years!" said Matt McDermott. "I am now incredibly excited to be surrounded by a passionate team for the education sector, aided by substantial resource. I couldn't be happier, and I will ensure, with the backing of EPM, that the education network and community continue to thrive."
"At EPM, we've always believed in the power of strong leadership networks," added Jen Elliott, CEO of EPM. "Today, we're proud to embark on this next phase together: putting school leaders at the heart of everything we do and uniting the sector. We have been overwhelmed with the initial support for this from CEOs, Headteachers, and local authorities, as well as other education businesses."
Whether you were part of the previous network or are new to the idea of joining an education leadership community, we invite you to be part of this journey. In the coming weeks, we'll share more about how to get involved, how to stay connected, and how we can shape the future together.
In the meantime, you can:
Save the date for what was previously 'MAT-Fest'
Watch this space. Something special is on the horizon!