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Supporting our Schools

Unlocking Potential: Centralised Services in Action Across The Sigma Trust

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, The Sigma Trust is committed to delivering an exceptional learning experience for every student. Central to this commitment is the strategic implementation of centralised services, designed to optimise operational efficiency and empower schools to prioritise teaching and learning.

A Driving Force for Educational Success

Centralised services function as a hub of expertise, streamlining essential operations across our MAT. This collaborative model fosters consistency, efficiency and a strong sense of community, benefiting each school within our network.

Key Areas of Focus

  • Payroll: The centralised payroll team ensures accurate and timely payment for all staff across the MAT. This reduces the administrative burden on individual schools, minimises errors, and allows for consistent application of pay and pension policies.
  • People & Culture: This team streamlines all aspects of human resources, including recruitment and selection, on-boarding of new staff, professional development and well-being initiatives, and performance management. This centralised approach fosters a cohesive, high-performing workforce dedicated to student success and cultivates a positive and supportive work environment ensuring staff are treated equally and consistently regardless of their place of work.
  • Estates Management: The estates team expertly manages all facilities across the Trust in thirteen different locations, ensuring safe and efficient learning environments for students. This includes overseeing maintenance schedules, coordinating repairs, and managing capital projects, ensuring that all buildings are maintained to the highest standards.
  • Digital Technology: This team provides robust IT infrastructure, reliable technical support, and comprehensive training to equip staff and students with the digital tools necessary for success in the modern classroom. This includes managing network security, software licensing, and providing ongoing support for all digital platforms.
  • Data: The data team collects, analyses, and utilises data to inform strategic decision-making across the MAT. This includes tracking student progress, identifying areas for improvement, and generating reports to support school improvement planning and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.
  • Finance: The finance team expertly manages financial resources, ensuring compliance, transparency, and value for money. This includes budget setting, financial reporting, and procurement, enabling sustainable growth and strategic investment in educational excellence.
  • Governance: The governance team provides expert guidance and support on all governance matters, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. They work closely with the Board of Trustees and local governance committees to promote effective leadership, risk management, and accountability across the MAT.

The Benefits Delivered

  • Increased Efficiency: Streamlined processes and reduced administrative burdens free valuable time and resources, allowing schools to focus on their core purpose: teaching and learning.
  • Enhanced Consistency: Standardised procedures and policies guarantee equitable provision of services and opportunities.
  • Deepened Expertise: Access to specialised knowledge and skills in key areas enhances the quality of support provided to schools.
  • Stronger Collaboration: Centralised services foster a culture of shared learning and best practice across the Trust, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Optimised Costs: Economies of scale and strategic procurement generate cost savings, enabling greater investment in student resources and initiatives.
  • Robust Governance: Central oversight and expert support ensure effective decision-making, compliance, and risk management across the Trust.
By strategically leveraging centralised services, we are able to cultivate an environment where schools can thrive and students can excel. This collaborative approach maximises resources, fosters consistency, efficiency and ensures that every student, regardless of their school within our network, has access to the support and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.

School Improvement

Our Education Team is dedicated to providing exceptional support to our schools, ensuring they deliver the highest quality education for all students. Together, we use evidence-informed practices to raise standards, promote safeguarding, and drive continuous improvement in all aspects of education.


Our team of experienced professionals includes:

  • Director of Education: Leading the strategic direction and development of our secondary schools, ensuring they meet the distinctive needs of older learners and preparing them for their next steps in education, work or training. 
  • Director of Primary: Overseeing the strategic direction and development of our primary schools, ensuring they meet the unique needs of young learners.
  • Director of Safeguarding: Championing child protection and safeguarding practices across the Trust, ensuring the well-being and safety of all students.
  • Director of Performance & Review: Analysing and evaluating school performance, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting schools in achieving their goals.
  • Director of School Improvement: Providing tailored support and guidance to schools, helping them implement effective strategies to enhance leaders, teaching & learning, and outcomes.
  • Behaviour & Attendance Lead: Addressing attendance and behaviour issues proactively, ensuring a positive and purposeful learning environment for all students.
  • Strategic Leads: Provide expert guidance and support to Heads of Departments on curriculum development, assessment strategies, and subject-specific pedagogy, ensuring effective teaching and learning practices across the Trust

By working collaboratively with our schools, we strive to foster a thriving educational community where every child has the opportunity to excel, ensuring that no one is overlooked or left behind.