To grow the BEST in everyone Our mission statement may only be six small words long, but it carries a big meaning. We passionately believe in the importance of high expectations, hard work and the development of a community of schools and nurseries where each of us strive to ‘be the best that we can be’. Always put children first Collaborate and compete Community-based education Courage to be compassionate Values 11 schools All Good or Better Financially secure Vision Mision to grow the BEST in everyone 8 After more than 23 years leading major projects at The Football Association, Mark Liddiard becomes COO of the Bedfordshire Schools Trust, succeeding Craig Smith. We talk toMark about his journey, his new role, andwhat drives him. Q1. What originally inspired you to pursue this career and join BEST? I first stepped into education 17 years ago as a school governor, later serving as both governor and chair at other schools. Those experiences gaveme a real insight into how schools operate and the impact strong leadership can have on children’s lives. I was drawn to BEST for its values and strong local reputation, and when the COO role opened up, it felt like the natural next step. Craig Smith has done an exceptional job building the Trust, and I have big shoes to fill. Q2. What does your role as COO involve, and how do you support BEST schools? As COO, my focus is ensuring the Trust’s central services run seamlessly so our schools can excel. I lead the teams responsible for HR, IT, compliance, policies, health and safety, estates, governance, safeguarding, and communications — providing Principals and staff with the resources, guidance, and support they need to focus on teaching and student outcomes. I also work closely with local stakeholders and partners to strengthen community ties and support the Trust’s continued growth. Q3. What initiatives are you most excited about that will benefit students and the community? I’m passionate about programmes that make a real difference for students — from improving facilities to promoting wellbeing and strengthening school Mark Liddiard joins BEST as Chief Operating Officer community links. Seeing young people flourish academically, socially, or through extra-curricular opportunities is incredibly motivating and helps prepare them for adulthood. Q4. How do you approach leadership while maintaining school autonomy? I’ve spent my career leading highperforming networks, and the principle is simple: empower people with the support and training they need to excel. My job is to support our Principals to run their schools well. Autonomy lets leaders develop their own school identities, ultimately benefitting their students and communities. Craig created a culture of trust and excellence at BEST, and I’m committed to building on that by ensuring our central services team enables every school to thrive and perform at their best. Q5. What excites you most about the future of BEST and your role within it? What excites me most is helping shape the next phase of BEST’s growth. Working with talented Principals and leadership teams, I’mmotivated by the opportunities to innovate, develop programmes that enhance student experiences, and strengthen the Trust in its communities. Knowing that the operational work we do today sets the foundation for schools to thrive tomorrow is incredibly rewarding. 9 Our approach shapes who we are and what we do
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODA2Njk=