MAT Regional Network: North East - Speakers

Claire Smith, CEO, Vision Learning Trust (Chair)

Claire is currently CEO of Vision Learning Trust which consists of two large four form entry schools in Sunderland in the North East region. She thoroughly enjoys this role as it involves working closely with school senior leaders while still maintaining contact with the trust's fabulous pupils to ensure the best possible education and outcomes. Prior to this, Claire had three headships and worked across four local authorities gaining significant leadership experience.She is passionate about early years education and about developing future school and MAT leaders. She sits on the advisory board for Schools North East and is president for the Sunderland NAHT branch. Both of these roles allow Claire to contribute to wider education discussions across the region and to collaborate with other senior leaders.

Dan Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, The Learning Partnership

Formed of two local trusts, The Learning Alliance and The Learning for Life Partnership, Dan oversees a diverse new multi-academy trust containing 15 schools. They deliver excellent educational provision for pupils in primary and secondary schools across the North West. Dan works across the trust to help make sure they meet their ambitious goals. As well as setting forward-looking direction, and assisting The Learning Partnership's experienced and knowledgeable trustees, his role includes ensuring that schools are supported very well, including in relation to their leadership.

Caroline Cusselle, Head of Education HR Services, Strictly Education

Caroline is a seasoned HR professional with a remarkable 30-year track record in the education sector. As the driving force behind the strategic development and growth of Strictly Education's HR Service and online resources, she is always one step ahead of the latest HR trends and challenges facing schools. Caroline and her team are trusted advisors to schools and academy trusts, helping them to develop people strategies that support their strategic growth objectives.