Reflecting on the spring term
As the spring term draws to a close, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect on the journey we’ve shared with our region’s 1,150 brilliant schools (and the wider education community) over the past three months.
From policy updates to celebrations of achievement, our stories have shown that the North East is resilient, ambitious, and united in its commitment to ensuring every child thrives. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights.
January: Foundations for inclusion and innovation
Our School Business Management Council meeting in January gave us a chance to listen to school professionals across the region, sharing insight on workforce pressures, finance, procurement, and national policy. In a rapidly changing landscape, these conversations reinforced the value of coming together to learn from one another.
Meanwhile, our “Fast-Track Your School’s Marketing with AI” workshop showed that effective communication is key in today’s competitive environment. And at the Academies Conference 2026, the message was clear: “Steady hands are not enough. We also need bold futures.” More than 500 schools took part, highlighting that ambition and stability must go hand in hand to close long-standing gaps.
February: Celebrating curriculum and pupil support
February saw a spotlight on curriculum and the incredible work happening in classrooms. At our sold-out Curriculum Conference, Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, emphasised connection, sharing, and strengthening collective knowledge, reminding us that collaboration is at the heart of great education.
Schools across the region were also recognised nationally with a letter from Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, commending them for their outstanding support of disadvantaged pupils. These achievements showcase the everyday dedication of educators who ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. Yet, as our findings on breakfast clubs highlighted, challenges remain: while pupils benefit greatly, funding and staffing pressures mean sustainability is a concern, which was a conversation that reached national media attention.
March: Recognition, reflection, and influence
March brought celebration and recognition. North East schools continued to shine on the national stage, demonstrating innovation, inclusion, and a commitment to thriving communities. At the fifteenth annual Patron’s Dinner, 500 leaders came together to honour the “pillars of our community,” reflecting on the people who make our schools strong.
Our region also had a clear voice on national policy, welcoming high-level policymakers to discuss SEND reform and sharing insight on how national initiatives can translate into meaningful action in North East schools. And with the latest school places data, we were reminded of the importance of careful planning and collaboration to meet shifting demand.
We look forward to continuing the journey
Across this term, one theme has been clear: the North East’s schools are more than institutions. They are communities of care, ambition, and innovation. From classrooms to boardrooms, our stories have highlighted not just challenges, but the bold, steady leadership that ensures every child can thrive.
As we head into the Easter break, we wish everyone a restful and joyful holiday. We look forward to reconnecting in two weeks, continuing our shared work, and celebrating more successes across our schools and communities.