In this case study, we will explore the progress made in this strand, and share our plans for the future. By harnessing available technological advancements and implementing them Trust-wide, we can streamline our processes for staff and enhance our teaching and learning provision.

 

What has been done so far?

We are currently in the process of rolling out a new integrated people and payroll system called MHR/iTrent.  This will provide employees and managers with a self-service platform, allowing them to take control of their own people data and improve administrative processes across our Trust.  This is the first time we have implemented a Trust-wide HR system, and with over 1,300 people working across our sites, it is a significant project. The new payroll element will systemise the claiming of expenses, improve accuracy and update our ways of working, reducing the level of manual processes.

We will also use this system for onboarding new colleagues, linking candidates through from MyNewTerm, enhancing and providing a smooth candidate experience from the very start. This will be connected to a new three-level induction programme, supported by our CPD toolkit, which was introduced in its first iteration last year.

The Trust Performance and Data Analytics Manager will continue to work on the provision of data dashboards through the use of PowerBi, integrating our education and people personnel data, eventually being able to identify and predict the impact of initiatives and scenarios. All of the above, combined with the new ‘IMP’ financial budgeting software, will enhance our financial transparency and provide valuable insights for management decision-making.

We have also made smaller improvements, such as linking our door systems to our management information system and connecting this system to our photocopiers and printers. These changes, though seemingly minor, save significant time and money, which can be reinvested into student education. People often overlook the potential savings from making the most of everyday resources, but the impact can be significant.

We are rolling out a rapid response initiative to support teachers during IT issues. If a teacher faces a technical problem in class, they will now be able to quickly get assistance without leaving the classroom. Within minutes, a support staff member can mirror the teacher's screen to diagnose and resolve the issue. If the problem persists, it will be escalated to an on-site physical engineer. This initiative aims to resolve a large proportion of classroom IT issues within minutes, ensuring minimal disruption to teaching.

This year we rolled out the Microsoft 365 (M365) single tenancy project throughout all our schools in the Trust.  Having everything stored in the cloud means that tools such as SharePoint and Microsoft Co-pilot for artificial intelligence are more accessible, ultimately saving time and enhancing productivity.  We are moving away from on-premises servers, improving our data security, and making transitions between our schools seamless and easy.

Technology is used throughout Brooke Weston Trust to provide our pupils with engaging learning opportunities. In the past, some schools have struggled with poor Wi-Fi signal.  Taking advantage of the Government’s ‘Connect The Classroom’ project, we have implemented new broadband lines for these schools. An example of the success of this project is that for the first time, we were able to host ‘Starflight Academy’, a learning programme which provides interactive and inspiring STEAM resources, centred around space education at Oakley Vale Primary School. The event was shared live with over 80 different schools across the country and greatly benefitted all children involved.

 

What’s coming up?

Looking ahead, we have detailed plans for the second phase of the CPD toolkit, which will provide valuable insights for management decisions. By the end of the year, this will be across the Trust, covering elements such as performance, learning management and CPD record keeping.

One of the key themes that came out of our recent wellbeing survey was the need for improved communication. Next year, we will be introducing the Thrive App, in addition to our current Colleague Connect system. This advanced communications application will deliver targeted messages and information, whilst obtaining two-way feedback from colleagues.  The app will be accessible via individuals’ mobile phones and tailored to their specific needs, without having to sift through irrelevant information.

Another technological advancement for the Trust involves the introduction of Monday.com, a new tool designed to manage projects. Already piloted, we plan to fully integrate it during the next academic year. This tool will greatly assist in project management, for example in facilitating working groups for curriculum development, thereby enhancing team effectiveness and efficiency.

As technology continues to advance, we are committed to enhancing and expanding its use across Brooke Weston Trust for both staff and learners.  We look forward to keeping you updated on how our use of technology continues to improve over the next few years in line with this strand.