“The MAT is unique in its approach to support: it sees each school as unique. In my first year in Headship I couldn’t have asked for better support, the entire MAT team has one goal - excellence.”

Emma Robertson, Headteacher, St Mary’s CE Primary School

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THE DURHAM DIOCESAN MAT

Introduction to the MAT

The Durham Diocesan MAT (DDMAT) exists to enable Church of England schools to continue to achieve educational excellence through Christian-based ethos and values. It will establish a lasting legacy of a financially and pedagogically self-sustaining organisation, enabling professionals and schools to continue to improve and evolve through collaborative support and challenge.

The DDMAT was born out of the vision of the Durham Diocesan Board of Education to give a further option to both Diocesan and community schools who wish to seek an academy solution. The MAT began in 2018 with three schools, doubling in size in 2019. We look forward to more schools joining the MAT.

“Every child matters and no child is ever left behind.”

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“When the opportunity arose to be part of the Durham Diocesan MAT we jumped at the chance! We had explored other MAT models, but the ethos and ‘raison d’etre’ of the Durham Diocesan MAT was fully in line with our thinking. To be part of a Church of England family of schools with an ethos of sharing expertise, working together and learning from one another, was our ideal!”

Lynn Chambers, Headteacher, St Aidan’s CE Primary School

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The Durham Diocesan MAT is a group of primary schools committed to excellence in all aspects of our work and strengthened by our strong Christian ethos. Trust schools have the freedom to maintain their unique identity while benefiting from membership of a network/family of schools committed to learning, support and challenge for pupils and adults alike. This is achieved through strong collaboration: building leadership capacity, investing in curriculum development, developing pedagogy and promoting professional learning.

As a result, MAT schools can expect:

high levels of challenge and support from our Challenge and Support Partners (CSPs) and experienced headteachers

leadership development opportunities including the deputy headteachers’ network and Lead Learners programme

commitment to consistent high standards through phased specific moderation events

professional learning bespoke to your school, school-to-school support as well as MAT-wide learning days.

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