20 March 2019

The Link Academy Trust is a Multi Academy Trust (MAT) of 9 rural primary schools located in Totnes, Newton Abbot, Teign valley and Crediton providing education to over 700 pupils. The Trust has ambitious plans for the future as they continue on their growth journey – expanding the number of schools and pupils that the trust will support and continuous improvement of the services they offer.

Matt Matthew, Trust Business Manager found out about funded support available for The Link Academy Trust through the Growth Hub service via a LinkedIn post. The Growth Hub team provided Matt with a one to one session with David Solomides, one of the Growth Hub’s network of Business Advisers that specialises in support for the Education Sector.

Matt said:

“Engaging with the Growth Hub service has been a very useful exercise. We have lots of plans in place which we are working on so this opportunity to talk with someone experienced in the education sector and take time to look at the wider strategic view and opportunities was useful.

“Of particular use is having a fresh pair of eyes to share ideas with. As a relatively small MAT funding, resources and capacity take careful management so being able to bring an experienced adviser in at no cost to the business has been great”

Growth Hub Adviser, David, spent time with Matt discussing the Trust’s plans, looking at how to overcome potential barriers and things to consider such as infrastructure, ICT support systems, staffing and HR as they advance on their growth journey.

Matt continues:

“We have already been able to take action on some of the points I discussed with David and we are seeing fruition in terms of bringing on board new schools to the Trust. Due to David’s experience in the sector he was able to help us make connections with other organisations that share similar goals and experience, which we can learn from or work with moving forward. I would definitely recommend the Growth Hub service to other businesses.”

To find out more about accessing fully funded 1-to-1 business advice contact the Growth Hub. Contact : 03456 047 047  |  www.heartofswgrowthhub.co.uk