With a strong local network at its core and a clear connection to national priorities in the UK, the community helps leaders stay informed, supported and actively involved in creating a better world through education.
Be Empowered
CommunityMembership
Join a dynamic community of education leaders, empowering collaboration, innovation and bold leadership to shape the future of education.
Connect and exchange ideas with peers and industry experts, seek confidential advice and support, tackle shared challenges, and strengthen leadership through collaboration and shared purpose.
Membership is currently free and designed to provide immediate professional value.
Exclusive contentand resources
MentorshipOpportunities
Community updatesand invitations
Member offersand discounts
Partner expertiseand support
Access to MATNetworksand other events
A stronger year-round professional network
MATNetwork Events
As part of the Empowered Schools Community, MATNetworks Events delivers local, regional and national opportunities for Multi-Academy Trust leaders to connect, share best practice and explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector.
Nothing found.
Thanks so much, Lucy — I really appreciate all your effort and support. It was such a lovely, well-run event, and your help made everything smoother. Huge thanks again for your time and coordination!Ernest Jenavs, Edurio
Thanks again for your help — you truly went above and beyond! We’ve had some great responses from the event, so I’m sure we’ll be back for future ones. Hope to collaborate again soon!Danni Fothergill, Edurio
Thanks so much for having us both today, we have taken a lot from it and made some great connections.Leigh Wilcock, Omnia Community
We had such a productive morning and are both really grateful for the invite for the charity. It means a lot and I think it will have been useful, long-term as well as short-term!Katie Southgate, CEO at Gold Geese
Thanks Lucy! We had a great day, fingers crossed that the network just keeps growing. Peers working together in networks is absolutely what we would advocate for and hope to support and encourage.Nicola Gillard, Senior Programme Manager | Schools Partnership Programme, Education Development Trust
What a fantastic event, — such a great opportunity to bring so many people together to connect and share excellent practice across trusts and partnerships. It was a real pleasure to be part of it, and I left with plenty of valuable takeaways!Mark Millbourne, Headteacher, Prettygate Infant and Junior Schools
Excellent collaboration event today. Really looking forward to the next one in 2026.”Paul Griffiths CEO, Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust
Thank you for yesterday's event really has the potential to grow into a powerful network for MATs in Essex.Paul Banks, CEO, The Chelmsford Learning Partnership
Wow! What a fantastic launch of the MATNetworks event. A brilliant day!Michelle Harrington - Director of People and Culture, EA to CEO, Empower Trust
I am passionate about making it easier for us all to connect with other local trusts, leaders and organisations. “Stronger together! I’d love to host a “MATNetwork in my local region too.”Catherine Stalham, CEO, South Essex Academy Trust
MAT Networks offers something the sector has been missing for far too long - genuinely local, community‑driven collaboration. The strength of the network lies in its ability to bring people together at a grassroots level, creating meaningful conversations that directly benefit the communities we serve. The team behind MAT Networks are incredibly passionate and enthusiastic about partnership; their energy is infectious. I truly believe in the work they are doing and our Trust are excited to be part of its continued growth, helping to strengthen local communities through the thoughtful sharing of best practice.Don Wry, CEO Hearts Academy Trust
What a brilliant day at the MATNetworks event in Basildon. It was great to hear from Rob Carpenter about all of the RISE support available for schools. His insights were both practical and energising. Feeling inspired and grateful for this community.Emma Wigmore, Chief Executive Officer, The Diocese of Chelmsford Vine Schools Trust
Great to be a part of the Essex MATNetworks Events launch today as a Keynote Speaker.Thanks to all involved in organising a great day. Enjoyed networking with all the delegates and spending time Well done. Great event. A pleasure to be part of it.Julian Dutnall, CEO, Life Education Trust
In collaboration with:
Regional Partner:
West Midlands, East Midlands, South East
Empowered Schools Community is a professional network for education leaders, bringing together membership, mentorship, practical resources and high-value events in one connected platform—designed to create ongoing value beyond one-off interactions.
The community is for trust leaders, headteachers, senior teams, governance professionals, aspiring leaders and education partners—anyone involved in leading or supporting schools.
Because schools can no longer rely on occasional events or fragmented networks. Empowered offers a more connected, practical and ongoing way to learn, build relationships and stay aligned with the priorities shaping education—helping you stay informed, supported and ahead.
Members gain access to practical resources, mentorship opportunities, event invitations, partner expertise and a trusted network of peers—all focused on real, day-to-day professional value.
MATNetworks Events is part of the community. It remains the dedicated MAT-focused event series, but Empowered offers a broader, year-round experience beyond events alone.
No. Events are just one part of the offer. You can access resources, mentorship and connections without attending—though events provide an additional opportunity to engage.
Once registered, you’ll start receiving relevant updates, gain access to resources, hear about events and mentorship opportunities and become part of a growing professional community.
Whether you’re shaping strategy, supporting delivery or looking to grow into your next leadership role, the community is built to support you.
