Introduction to Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK (350+ Words)

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK stands as one of the most respected and fastest-growing multi-academy trusts in England. Headquartered in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, the trust operates a family of secondary schools, primary schools, and sixth forms across the North of England. With a strong focus on ‘Students First’ and a relentless commitment to improving life chances, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK has earned a reputation for academic excellence, innovative teaching, and strong community engagement. The trust’s mission is to ensure that every pupil, regardless of background, achieves their full potential. As a top Education employer, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK attracts dedicated professionals who share its values of integrity, hard work, and collaboration. The trust is recognised by Ofsted for its effective leadership and is a benchmark for best practice in the education sector.

The trust’s scale is impressive: it employs over 5,000 staff and educates more than 40,000 students across its academies. Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is not just a network of schools; it is a community of educators committed to continuous improvement. The trust’s central team in Wakefield provides strategic direction, while each academy retains its own identity and local ethos. This balance ensures consistency in quality while allowing for tailored approaches to meet local needs. The trust’s approach to professional development is second to none, with bespoke training programmes, leadership pathways, and a strong emphasis on evidence-based pedagogy. Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK has been recognised with numerous awards, including being named a ‘Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer’ and achieving Gold Standard for its initial teacher training. For any professional seeking a rewarding career in education, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK offers a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking environment.

Company History and Business Evolution (450+ Words)

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK was founded in 2005, born out of the successful turnaround of Outwood Grange Academy in Wakefield. The school, once struggling, was transformed under the leadership of Sir Michael Wilkins, who later became the trust’s founding CEO. The academy’s rapid improvement caught national attention, and in 2010 the trust was established to replicate this success across other schools. The first sponsored academies joined the trust in 2011, including Outwood Academy Valley in Nottinghamshire and Outwood Academy Adwick in Doncaster. The trust’s growth accelerated following the 2014 Education Act, which encouraged multi-academy trusts. By 2016, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK had expanded to 15 academies, and by 2020 it reached over 30. The trust has consistently focused on school improvement, often taking on schools in ‘requires improvement’ or ‘inadequate’ categories and turning them around.

Key milestones include the opening of the Outwood Institute of Education in 2013, which provides teacher training and CPD. In 2015, the trust launched the ‘Outwood Teaching School Alliance’, one of the largest in the country. The trust has also pioneered the ‘Outwood Curriculum’, a knowledge-rich model that emphasises core subjects and cultural literacy. Financially, the trust has maintained robust fiscal management, with annual revenue exceeding £200 million. Despite rapid growth, the trust has retained its core values and flat management structure. In 2022, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK was named ‘Trust of the Year’ at the MAT Excellence Awards. The trust’s evolution reflects a blend of organic growth and strategic sponsorship, always with a focus on improving outcomes for disadvantaged students. Today, the trust is led by CEO Lee Wilson, who continues to drive innovation and excellence. The trust’s journey from a single academy to a national leader in education is a testament to its effective leadership and unwavering commitment to students.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK at a Glance

• Headquarters: Wakefield, West Yorkshire, UK
• Founded: 2005
• CEO: Lee Wilson
• Number of Employees: Over 5,000
• Number of Academies: 40+ (secondary, primary, sixth forms)
• Students Educated: Over 40,000
• Annual Revenue: £200+ million
• Ofsted Rating: Majority of academies rated Good or Outstanding
• Key Awards: MAT Excellence Awards – Trust of the Year (2022), Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer (2021, 2022, 2023)
• Core Focus: School improvement, teacher training, curriculum development
• Flagship Academy: Outwood Grange Academy (Wakefield)
• Geographic Reach: Yorkshire, Humber, North East, East Midlands
• Trust Type: Multi-academy trust (sponsored and converter academies)
• Ofsted Inspection: Outstanding for leadership and management (central trust)
• Professional Development: Outwood Institute of Education
• Initial Teacher Training: Outwood Teaching School Alliance
• Curriculum: Knowledge-rich, with emphasis on English, maths, science, and humanities
• Community Engagement: Strong parental involvement, business partnerships
• Innovation: Use of data-driven analytics to improve pupil outcomes
• Sustainability: Carbon-neutral target by 2035

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK’s mission is simple: ‘Every child, every opportunity, every day.’ This drives all decisions, from teaching methods to resource allocation. The vision is to create a family of outstanding schools where students flourish academically, socially, and personally. The trust’s core values are encapsulated in the acronym ‘PRIDE’: Persistence, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence. These values underpin interactions between staff, students, and the wider community. The trust believes in high expectations for all, regardless of background, and is committed to closing the attainment gap. Staff are expected to model these values and uphold the trust’s reputation for professionalism and care. The trust’s ethos is one of continuous improvement, where feedback is welcomed and innovation is encouraged. These values are not just posters on walls; they are embedded in performance management, governance, and daily practice.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK’s strategy focuses on three pillars: quality of education, operational efficiency, and people development. The trust aims to ensure that every academy provides a high-quality, knowledge-rich curriculum supported by excellent teaching. Operational efficiency is achieved through shared services, procurement, and centralised systems, allowing academy leaders to focus on teaching and learning. People development is the cornerstone: the trust invests heavily in recruitment, retention, and progression of staff. The future roadmap includes expanding into new regions where the trust can make a significant impact, particularly in areas of deprivation. Digital transformation is also a priority, with plans to enhance data systems, e-learning platforms, and parental engagement tools. The trust is committed to sustainability, aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2035 through energy-efficient buildings and green initiatives. Additionally, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is developing a stronger brand identity to attract top talent and partnerships. The trust’s five-year plan includes reaching 50 academies and becoming the employer of choice in the education sector.

Products, Technologies, and Services

As an education trust, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK’s primary ‘product’ is the educational service delivered through its academies. However, the trust also offers a range of services to other schools and organisations. These include school improvement consultancy, leadership coaching, and CPD programmes through the Outwood Institute of Education. The trust has developed a proprietary curriculum framework, the ‘Outwood Curriculum’, which includes detailed schemes of work, assessments, and resources for teachers. Technologically, the trust uses a suite of tools for data management, including SIMS, Insight, and Google Workspace for Education. The trust’s analytics team uses data to track pupil progress, identify at-risk students, and evaluate interventions. The trust also offers initial teacher training (ITT) via the Outwood Teaching School Alliance, which provides School Direct placements and PGCE routes. Additionally, the trust runs a supply teacher service, Outwood Supply, to meet staffing needs across its academies and external schools. These services not only generate income but also strengthen the trust’s reputation as a centre of excellence.

Industries and Markets Served

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK primarily serves the education industry, specifically the primary and secondary school market in England. However, its influence extends to teacher training, educational consultancy, and corporate partnerships. The trust works with local businesses to provide work experience and apprenticeships for students. It also collaborates with higher education institutions, such as universities, to deliver degree-level programmes. The trust’s services are sought by other schools, trusts, and local authorities looking to improve standards. The geographic markets served include Yorkshire, the Humber region, North East England, and the East Midlands. The trust is also a key player in the education policy landscape, often contributing to government consultations and pilot programmes.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership philosophy at Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is based on servant leadership and distributed authority. The central trust team provides strategic direction and support, but academy principals and heads of department are empowered to make decisions. The trust’s CEO, Lee Wilson, emphasises transparency, collaboration, and a ‘no blame’ culture. Leaders are expected to be visible, approachable, and deeply involved in teaching and learning. The trust has a flat management structure with clear lines of accountability. Professional development is a leadership priority, with tailored programmes for aspiring leaders, middle leaders, and senior leaders. The trust’s ‘Outwood Leadership Academy’ offers a structured pathway from teaching to headship. Leaders are also trained in using data to drive improvement and in fostering positive school cultures. The trust values resilience and adaptability, especially in challenging contexts.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK hosts several key events annually. The flagship is the ‘Outwood Education Conference’, a two-day event for educators across the trust and beyond, featuring keynote speakers, workshops, and networking. The trust also runs ‘Outwood TeachMeets’, informal gatherings where teachers share best practice. Community engagement is central: each academy runs parent forums, open days, and fundraising events. The trust has a strong partnership with local businesses and charities, including the ‘Outwood Foundation’ which provides scholarships and enrichment activities. The trust also participates in national events like the ‘National Apprenticeship Show’ and ‘Schools and Academies Show’. Community engagement is measured through parent satisfaction surveys and involvement numbers. The trust’s academies also engage in inter-school competitions in sports, drama, and STEM, fostering a sense of community across the trust.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK employs over 5,000 staff, including teachers, teaching assistants, support staff, and central team professionals. The workplace culture is described as supportive, ambitious, and collaborative. Staff benefits include competitive salaries, generous pension schemes, and access to wellbeing programmes. The trust has a strong focus on work-life balance, with flexible working options where possible. Professional development is a key retention tool: the trust offers free CPD, leadership training, and progression opportunities. The culture is built on trust and respect, with regular feedback through appraisals and staff surveys. The trust has been recognised as a ‘Good’ employer by the DfE and has a low staff turnover rate compared to the sector average. Employee networks exist for new teachers, early-career teachers, and staff from underrepresented groups. The trust also celebrates success through awards ceremonies and recognition schemes. Overall, the workplace culture is one where staff feel valued, challenged, and supported.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)

Role: Teacher of Mathematics – Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK

Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire (with potential to work across multiple academies within the trust)

Salary: £30,000 – £45,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

Job Type: Full-time, permanent

Start Date: September 2024 or earlier

Responsibilities:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver high-quality mathematics lessons to students aged 11-18.
• Assess, record, and report on the progress of students in line with trust policies.
• Contribute to the development of the mathematics curriculum and resources.
• Participate in the trust’s CPD programmes and collaborate with colleagues across academies.
• Support students’ personal development and uphold the trust’s ethos and values.
• Engage with parents and carers to discuss student progress and well-being.
• Supervise and guide teaching assistants and trainee teachers where applicable.
• Take part in extra-curricular activities and school visits.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.
• A degree in mathematics or a related subject.
• Experience teaching mathematics at secondary level (desirable but not essential for NQTs/ECTs).
• Strong subject knowledge and enthusiasm for mathematics.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-based practice.
• Ability to use data to inform teaching and learning.
• Eligibility to work in the UK (visa sponsorship may be available for exceptional candidates).

Why Join Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK?

• Be part of a high-performing trust with a proven track record of school improvement.
• Access to world-class professional development through the Outwood Institute of Education.
• Clear career progression pathways to middle and senior leadership.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including generous pension and wellbeing support.
• Opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of young people in diverse communities.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation (1200+ Words)

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK receives an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from current and former employees. Many reviews highlight the trust’s strong leadership, supportive culture, and excellent CPD opportunities. Teachers frequently mention that the trust values staff well-being and offers a good work-life balance. Common praises include ‘great career progression’, ‘supportive line managers’, and ‘a real sense of purpose’. However, some reviews note the pressure of high expectations and the pace of change. The trust’s senior leadership team is often commended for being visible and approachable. Overall, the trust is rated highly compared to other multi-academy trusts, with a strong recommendation rate from current employees.

INDEED

Indeed reviews echo similar sentiments, with an average rating of 4.0. Staff appreciate the trust’s commitment to professional development and the collaborative atmosphere. Many reviews mention the positive impact the trust has on students’ lives. Some negative feedback points to workload pressures, especially during inspection periods, but this is common across the sector. The trust’s response to feedback is seen as proactive, with changes implemented based on staff surveys. Indeed reviews also highlight the trust’s strong sense of community and the ability to move between academies.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

As an education trust, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is not typically rated on Gartner Peer Insights, which focuses on technology vendors. However, the trust’s use of education technology and data analytics has been referenced positively in industry reports. The trust is considered an early adopter of evidence-based teaching tools. While not a traditional product, the trust’s ‘Outwood Curriculum’ has been cited as a best-practice example in several DfE publications. The trust’s reputation among educational leaders is very strong.

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot reviews for Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK come from parents, students, and staff. The trust holds a 4.2-star rating. Parents appreciate the high standards of teaching, good communication, and supportive environment. Some reviews from students mention engaging lessons and extra-curricular opportunities. Negative reviews are rare and often relate to individual school experiences rather than the trust as a whole. The trust actively responds to feedback, demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement.

G2

G2 reviews are not applicable as Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is not a software provider. However, its educational programmes and training services are sometimes reviewed on alternative platforms. The trust’s teacher training programmes receive high satisfaction scores from trainees, with most rating the support and mentoring as excellent.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google reviews for individual academies within the trust are overwhelmingly positive. The flagship Outwood Grange Academy in Wakefield has a 4.3-star rating from over 200 reviews. Parents praise the strong leadership, safe environment, and academic progress. Students often mention the quality of teaching and the range of subjects. Some negative reviews highlight specific issues like parking or building facilities, but these are minor. The trust’s overall Google reputation is excellent, with consistent positive feedback across its academies.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

On LinkedIn, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is followed by over 50,000 professionals. The trust regularly posts about job openings, school achievements, and educational insights. The company page is well-regarded for its transparency and thought leadership. Employees often share positive experiences and attend trust events. The trust’s engagement rate on LinkedIn is high, indicating strong brand affinity. Recruiters frequently note the trust’s ability to attract top talent due to its reputation and benefits.

Why Organizations Choose Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK

Organizations choose to partner with Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK for its proven track record of school improvement, its focus on evidence-based practice, and its strong ethical values. The trust offers a reliable structure for school turnaround, supported by a central team of experts. Business partners appreciate the trust’s professionalism, financial stability, and commitment to community engagement. The trust’s procurement and shared services model ensures value for money and efficiency. Many schools choose to become part of the trust to benefit from its high-quality CPD and leadership development programmes. Additionally, the trust’s localised approach means that schools retain their identity while gaining access to central resources. For sponsors and government bodies, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK represents a safe pair of hands for improving outcomes in disadvantaged areas.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK using the following contact details:

Address: Outwood Grange Academy Trust, Potovens Lane, Outwood, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 2PF, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)1924 762330
Support Number: +44 (0)1924 762331 (for staff and pupil queries)
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)1924 762332 (for IT support)
Website: www.outwood.com

Official Social Media Presence

Follow Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK on social media for the latest news, job vacancies, and educational updates:
LinkedIn:Outwood Grange Academy Trust
Twitter/X:@OutwoodTrust
Facebook:Outwood Grange Academy Trust
Instagram:@outwoodtrust
YouTube:Outwood Grange Academy Trust

SEO FAQ Section

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is a multi-academy trust based in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, operating over 40 primary and secondary schools across England.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK currently runs over 40 academies, including secondary schools, primary schools, and sixth forms.

The CEO of Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is Lee Wilson, who leads the trust with a focus on school improvement and staff development.

The headquarters of Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is located at Potovens Lane, Outwood, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 2PF.

The mission of Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is 'Every child, every opportunity, every day,' ensuring high achievement for all students.

Yes, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK offers initial teacher training through the Outwood Teaching School Alliance and School Direct programmes.

You can view and apply for vacancies at Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK on its official careers page at www.outwood.com/careers.

Salaries at Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK vary by role and experience, typically ranging from £30,000 to £45,000 for a teacher, with leadership roles higher.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK has a 4.1 out of 5 star rating on Glassdoor, with employees praising CPD and supportive culture.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK promotes the values of Persistence, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence (PRIDE).

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK educates over 40,000 students across its family of academies.

Yes, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK is recognised as a good employer, with high staff retention and positive reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed.

The majority of academies within Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.

Yes, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK has developed the 'Outwood Curriculum', a knowledge-rich framework used across its academies.

Yes, you can attend open days or arrange a visit by contacting the individual academy directly through the trust's website.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK offers competitive salaries, generous pension, CPD, wellbeing programmes, and flexible working options.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK has dedicated pastoral teams, mental health support, and a strong anti-bullying policy to ensure student wellbeing.

Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK was founded in 2005 after the successful turnaround of Outwood Grange Academy, and has since grown to over 40 academies.

Yes, Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK works closely with local businesses to provide work experience, apprenticeships, and career guidance for students.

You can contact Outwood Grange Academy Trust UK via phone at +44 (0)1924 762330 or email through the contact form on its website.

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