The atmosphere was energising, inspiring, and full of connection. Staff enjoyed the chance to connect and engage with peers from all corners of the Trust; sharing stories, laughter, and a sense of belonging that is at the heart of what makes Aletheia unique.

Celebrating Dedication and Service

A highlight of the day was celebrating the remarkable commitment of colleagues who have given 25+ years of service across the Trust. Each was presented with a card and a Bluewater voucher as a simple token of thanks (a simple gesture that, while heartfelt, could never fully reflect the dedication and impact of their service). It was a moment to pause and recognise that the impact of their care, commitment, and professionalism resonates every day in the lives of our children and the wider school community.

Learning from Expert Speakers

The day’s keynote speakers brought fresh perspectives on communication, connection, and the power of the mind.

Nicky Perfect, a renowned hostage negotiator and communications coach, shared insights from her extensive experience in high-pressure environments. She explored barriers to communication, perception, and the importance of active listening, leaving staff with practical takeaways they can apply in both professional and personal contexts. Her session reminded everyone that understanding and empathy are central to meaningful communication - whether in classrooms, staffrooms, or leadership meetings.

Following a short break, Tim Buckle, psychological skills mentor and the mind behind The Chimp Paradox, delivered a thought-provoking session on how our inner thoughts can take over our behaviour. Staff participated in simple exercises that demonstrated the power of reflection, self-awareness, and managing impulses; techniques that are just as valuable in teaching as they are in daily life.

Cards of Connection

Throughout the day, we also celebrated the power of everyday appreciation with our “Cards of Connection”. Each staff member was invited to write a message about someone or something that makes them feel connected. The responses were heartfelt and abundant, reflecting the Trust’s culture of support and care.

Some of the beautiful messages included:

• “I am currently completing my teacher training with the Aletheia Academies Trust and I feel connected to all the people who have supported me.”

• “We all support each other and do the best for the school.”

• “Thank you for being there for me, thank you for having my back, thank you for being family.”

These simple notes captured the essence of what Trust Day is truly about - recognising the human connections that make a difference every single day.

Looking Ahead: Vision for the Future

The day concluded with reflections from Steve Carey, CEO, and Mark Till, Chair of Trustees. Steve spoke passionately about the Trust’s vision for the future, highlighting exciting developments such as the relocation of Rosherville to Cable Wharf and Alkerden Academy’s permanent building, as well as ongoing initiatives that underpin everything we do, including Our DNA: Teaching and Learning Framework.

Steve’s heartfelt gratitude resonated throughout the hall:

Thank you for the unrelenting care, culture, and support that you have provided our children over the last academic year. Thank you for your most precious and generous gift - your time! Thank you for your determination to improve the life chances for local children.

He reminded everyone of the importance of community, belonging, and the collective effort that makes the Trust strong.

The message was clear: every staff member, every contribution, and every act of care is valued and central to who we are.

A Day to Remember

Aletheia Trust Day 2026 was more than an event - it was a celebration of connection, collaboration, and the shared purpose that binds our schools together. From recognising long-serving staff to learning from expert speakers and reflecting on the power of everyday appreciation, the day reinforced the strength of our community.

As we move forward, inspired by new insights and a reminder of the incredible commitment within our Trust, we continue to nurture an environment where every child thrives, every staff member feels valued, and the bonds of connection grow stronger year-on-year.

For those considering joining the Aletheia family, events like this demonstrate the culture of care, collaboration, and continuous learning that defines our Trust. Here, every voice is heard, every contribution matters, and every day offers an opportunity to make a real difference.