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Dear Colleagues, 

As I write my first Weekly Whistle as CEO, I want to begin by expressing my gratitude and humility in taking up this role. I am acutely aware of the big shoes I have to fill, and I am committed to serving our Trust to the very best of my ability. 

This week has brought its share of challenges, not least the weather! Despite slipping, sliding, and skidding around, I have been deeply impressed by the resilience and determination shown by our staff and students. Your efforts to start the spring term in such a positive way are truly admirable, and I thank you all for your commitment. 

We began the week with our SI meeting, where the team grappled with the complexities of potential new curriculum developments. These discussions are vital as we continue to support and improve our schools, ensuring we remain at the forefront of educational excellence. 

Safeguarding training also took place on Monday, and I am pleased to report that our in-house expertise, led by Richard Woodland, our Director of Inclusion, now enables us to deliver Level 2 and Level 3 DSLS training, with external ratification. This is a significant step forward in keeping our community safe and well-supported. 

Looking ahead, I am excited about the imminent launch of our new five-year strategic plan, which is currently awaiting Trustee sign-off. This plan is the result of contributions from a wide range of stakeholders: including Trustees, Headteachers (representing their communities), and the Executive Leadership Team. It sets out our vision for the future and our commitment to continuous improvement. 

Our Strategic Focus includes two main pillars: adopting technology and AI to automate routine tasks, allowing staff to better support young people, and increasing efficiency amid financial challenges in education so that more resources directly benefit children. While AI tools are integral for teachers creating materials and checking understanding, people remain central to our mission. 

Second, we are deepening our civic responsibility, seeking opportunities for our schools to become even more integrated within their local communities. Our direction of travel for governance is towards more meaningful WeST Community Councils, giving local voices greater influence and support.  Our first round of these 11 Councils met last term and are starting to see impact in our local communities.  We still seek members for this important accountability layer.  Please approach headteachers if interested. 

We are also exploring new collaborations with special schools, aiming to work alongside colleagues who support students with the highest levels of need. More details will follow as these exciting projects develop. 

Admissions consultations are underway in several of our schools, particularly in our rural settings. Meanwhile, preparations for Ten Tors are in full swing, offering students a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate resilience and enjoy healthy outdoor activities. 

Our secondary schools are gearing up for a series of mock exams this term, with staff working diligently to prepare students for success. I am confident that these efforts will pay dividends in the months ahead. 

Thank you once again for your hard work, resilience, and dedication. I look forward to working with you all as we embark on this new chapter together. 

With best wishes for the term ahead, 

Nat Parnell 
CEO 

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Happier January

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Recruitment update:

We are delighted to inform you of the following exciting career opportunities within our Trust:

Coombe Dean School are seeking to appoint a Cover Supervisor. The successful applicant will demonstrate an understanding of the issues related to the motivation of students and have a good education with a minimum of 5 GCSEs A-C or equivalent. For more information, please click here. Closing date: 19 January 2026.

Hele’s School are seeking to appoint a Science Technician. The successful candidate will support and contribute to the achievement of the School’s Mission and strategic objectives by working as a member of the Science Team, providing effective, flexible and efficient practical support to the Science Department. For more information, please click here. Closing date: 15 January 2026.

Westcountry Schools Trust are seeking to appoint Cluster Operations Officer, WeST Plymouth Cluster.  The successful candidate will be based across two schools in Plymouth. The Operations Officer will lead and manage operational activities, people management and workload across the Plymouth Cluster. For more information, please click here. Closing date: 19 January 2026.

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