On Friday 7th November, colleagues from Co-op Academy Brierley were officially welcomed into the Co-op Academies Trust family at their induction event, held at Co-op’s headquarters, One Angel Square in Manchester.

The day brought together senior leaders, teachers and support staff from Brierley with members of the Trust’s Central Team and Co-op colleagues. The induction introduced the Brierley team to our shared values of fairness, honesty, respect and community, and explored how these values sit at the heart of everything we do.

CEO Dr Chris Tomlinson led the day, opening with a warm welcome and an overview of the Trust’s mission, vision and ‘Ways of Being Co-op’: Do what matters most, Be yourself always, Show you care, and Succeed together. He spoke about the importance of collaboration and how being part of a strong, values-driven network helps every academy thrive.

Throughout the day, colleagues heard from members of the Trust’s regional and central teams, who shared insights into the support available across areas such as curriculum, people, finance, estates and wellbeing. There was also plenty of time for discussion, reflection and questions, giving Brierley colleagues the chance to connect with others and share ideas for the year ahead.

Reflecting on the event, Dr Chris Tomlinson said:

"I want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making the induction such a positive and enjoyable event. It was brilliant to see our colleagues from Co-op Academy Brierley come together and feel part of our Co-op community"

Co-op Academy Brierley is a brand-new specialist school in Cross Green, Leeds, designed to meet the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities. The academy’s purpose-built site provides a calm, welcoming space where every pupil can learn, grow and thrive.

Sarah Harridge, headteacher at Co-op Academy Brierley said:

“The Trust Induction Day at Brierley was a great opportunity for our staff to hear first-hand from Chris and Russell about what being part of the Co-op means, and why it feels so special. The whole day was interactive and collaborative, and gave us the chance to spend quality time together as colleagues. There were lots of thoughtful conversations and plenty of laughter. A huge thank you to everyone involved in planning, presenting and organising such a brilliant day.”

The curriculum is shaped by the Co-op value Do what matters most, helping pupils develop life skills, independence and a love of learning. At Brierley, cooperation is more than a word – it underpins everything from classroom practice to community partnerships, creating a place where everyone feels valued and empowered to do the right thing for each other.

As Co-op Academy Brierley begins this new chapter, the whole Trust community looks forward to supporting them on their journey and celebrating all that their pupils and staff will achieve together.