Central Support

What we offer

We are dedicated to nurturing the growth and success of all pupils and staff. Our core offer includes tailored support and challenges for schools, helping them continuously improve. We foster meaningful collaboration through networks that enable schools to share best practice, insight, and innovation within a supportive community.

Through our scheme of delegation, governors retain responsibility for local decision-making while gaining the advantages of being part of a larger trust. We offer shared expertise, streamlined operations, and cost efficiencies. Our central Trust team is always on hand to offer guidance, resources, and professional support across areas like school improvement, HR, finance, and governance.

School Improvement

There are 2 strands to DND Learning Trust school improvement:

The Challenge and Support Partner Model: To provide accountability and support growth in schools.
Our Trust School Improvement Strategy: To build collaboration, strengthen and secure curriculum design and pedagogy and broaden capacity through the development of leadership at all levels.

Finance and Operations

We offer strong and effective financial management that is underpinned by robust and effective systems, structures, and processes. We have established processes for financial planning, budget monitoring and internal control, ensuring that financial information is accurate and reliable, and that resources are used in the most effective way. Our Business Partner model ensures regular reviews of financial practices and processes, ensuring that financial performance is continuously improving over time.

The DNDLT supports core operational functions including HR, premises management, and staff training through dedicated services and resources. We ensure high-level communication, regular audits, and internal assurance processes are in place for every school. This approach strengthens day-to-day operations while prioritising quality assurance, compliance, and long-term success across the Trust.

Admissions

With the individual identity of each school in our Trust being a priority, each school is supported to create their own admissions policy. Each school’s individual admissions policy is available on its website.

See our schools here.

Marketing

When you join the Trust, you can gain access to expert marketing support to help with promotional materials, school advertising, and digital campaigns. Strong marketing boosts admissions, ensures your materials reflect your school’s identity, and strengthens your community reputation.

Central Services

Strategic direction and planning
Governance and compliance management
School improvement co-ordination
Safeguarding
Financial management and control
Strategic procurement
Capital project management
Payroll
HR management
Staff development management
Premises and estates management
Insurance and risk management co-ordination
Systems with appropriate training and advice
Performance data analysis
Marketing, communications and corporate image management
Mental Health First Aiders

Meet the Central Team

Our Trust Central Team brings together experienced professionals dedicated to supporting the success of every school within the Trust. Each team member plays a vital role in supporting our schools to thrive.