At SJCMAT, our mission is simple but powerful: to transform children’s lives through high-quality Catholic education. Over the last three years, we have been on a remarkable journey defined by faith, ambition, and a relentless focus on doing what is right for the children we serve.
When we first set out our strategy, many of our Trust’s schools faced significant and complex challenges. Some had not been judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted for over a decade. Others struggled with financial instability, deteriorating buildings, or cultures that had lost belief in their pupils’ potential. In some cases, expectations were low, leadership was inconsistent, and reading, vital to life success, was not prioritised.
Despite these challenges, we believed that real change was possible. We refused to accept that disadvantage should determine destiny. Instead, we developed a Trust-wide strategy rooted in evidence, Catholic values, and the belief that every child can succeed.
As one headteacher described: “It was the best thing for my school. I wasn’t sure at first, but now I wouldn’t go back. The support, collaboration, and relentless focus on excellence have been transformative.”
Building a strategy for sustainable improvement
Our strategy is based on what we know works in the highest-performing schools and Trusts across the country, particularly those serving communities with high levels of disadvantage. At its core are five key pillars that now underpin everything we do:
- Strong and effective partnerships
We believe that collaboration is key. By forming strong local and national partnerships, we access high-quality resources, professional development, and the opportunity to learn from others.
“The sense of community and shared purpose across the Trust is incredibly motivating,” commented a middle leader. - A high-quality, coherent curriculum
All of our schools now benefit from a well-sequenced, ambitious curriculum developed by subject experts and grounded in Catholic social teaching.
“I feel we’ve built a curriculum that finally meets our children’s needs, ambitious, values-driven, and grounded in real purpose,” shared a deputy head. - Evidence-based teaching and leadership
From classroom practice to Trust-wide leadership, we use the best available research to inform our decisions. There is a shared language of teaching across our schools, supported by robust instructional coaching.
“There’s a consistency now, an evidence-based approach that’s shared, understood, and enacted by all,” said one teacher. - Reading at the heart
Reading is fundamental to success in school and in life. We have placed reading at the heart of our improvement journey, ensuring that every child is taught to read well and has access to a rich reading culture.
“The emphasis on reading has changed the game. Children are not just learning to read, they’re loving it,” noted a Key Stage leader. - World-class professional development
Our staff are our greatest asset. We invest heavily in professional development, from new teachers to experienced leaders, so that every adult in our schools feels valued, supported, and empowered to excel.
“CPD and support have been phenomenal. I feel genuinely invested in, not just as a teacher, but as a future leader,” shared another staff member.
The impact: a story of transformation
The transformation across SJCMAT schools has been significant. Since 2024, our Trust has undergone eight Ofsted inspections and seven inspections from the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI/SIAMS). The results are a powerful testament to the strength of our approach.
- Schools previously judged Inadequate, including The Trinity and Holy Spirit Catholic Academies, are now rated Good in all areas by Ofsted and CSI.
- St Ambrose and St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academies have moved from Requires Improvement to Good, with Outstanding elements in areas such as personal development.
- Holy Family Catholic Academy has maintained its high standards, receiving an Outstanding rating for Catholic Life and Mission.
- Across the board, CSI inspections highlight the strength of Catholic education, leadership, and pupil outcomes within our Trust.
A consistent theme has emerged in each report: inspectors recognise the ambition, positivity, and strong culture now embedded across our schools. They see leaders who don’t dwell on barriers but instead focus on overcoming them. They see a culture of high expectations and a community that truly lives out its Catholic mission.
As one headteacher reflected: “Inspectors could see it straight away. The culture has changed, we believe in our children, and they believe in themselves.”
A culture where everyone can thrive
Transformation is not just about inspection outcomes; it’s about creating a place where children and adults can thrive.
We’ve worked hard to create a positive climate across all our schools. Children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Staff feel empowered, supported, and proud to be part of the SJCMAT family. Every teacher benefits from regular coaching and meaningful professional development. Leaders are developed from within, and career progression is both possible and encouraged.
“Since joining SJCMAT, my development has accelerated. I’ve grown more in two years than I did in five elsewhere,” said a teacher.
“The leadership team listens, challenges, and supports. It’s a culture of trust, not fear,” added another.
By focusing on evidence-informed practice rooted in Gospel values, we have created schools where faith and excellence coexist.
Looking to the future
We are proud of the progress made so far, but we know the journey is ongoing. Our mission, to transform lives, is not a destination but a daily commitment. Our decisions continue to be shaped by what is best for our children and communities.
St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is now recognised as a highly effective and ambitious Trust serving some of the region’s most disadvantaged communities. We are living proof that even the most significant challenges can be overcome with the right strategy, the right culture, and a shared sense of purpose.
Most importantly, children across our Trust are now receiving the high-quality Catholic education they deserve.
“To anyone considering joining SJCMAT,” said one senior leader, “I’d say, go for it. It’s the best decision I’ve made in my career.”
SJCMAT is transforming lives through faith, through excellence, and together.
