HR colleagues from across Co-op Academies Trust gathered at Angel Square on Wednesday 10 December for the Trust’s annual HR Conference.

Around 40 colleagues attended from academies across the Trust, coming together to learn, share practice and work cooperatively on priorities that matter most to our people.

This year’s conference focused on growing HR expertise, with a strong emphasis on creating inclusive environments for disabled colleagues. It also marked the first opportunity for colleagues to come together to help shape the Trust’s developing people strategy, which will be shared more widely with all colleagues for discussion and input in the summer term.

One of the highlights of the day was a powerful session led by Benna Kara from Belonging Effect, who shared her experiences as a school leader with a disability. Emma Soper, Principal at Connell Co-op College, also spoke about how the college works to be as inclusive as possible in meeting colleagues’ individual needs.

Colleagues also took part in sessions on data protection and SAM-People, led by Tammy Psyzy and Dewan Chowdhury, helping to build confidence and consistency across HR practice.

The conference reflected the Trust’s wider strategic priorities around strengthening HR provision and improving the colleague experience. By creating space to step away from day-to-day roles, colleagues were able to connect, reflect and plan together for the future.