Sean Powers
I am a Trust leader with a 30-year record of driving school improvement, managing growth, and achieving excellence across diverse educational settings in Cornwall.
Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of St Barnabas Multi Academy Trust, I lead a community of 14 schools. Since joining the Trust in 2018, I have been instrumental in its strategic expansion and improvement, growing it from 6 schools (4 of which were rated 'Requires Improvement') into a successful MAT where all schools are now rated 'Good' or 'Outstanding'.
My career is founded on a deep commitment to high-quality teaching and learning. I qualified from Charlotte Mason College in 1993 with a BA (QTS), specialising in Outdoor and Environmental Education with a focus on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This unique specialism is a core strategic pillar, with our Trust's USP being in Early Years and Outdoor Adventure.
A History of Transformational Leadership:
● Curriculum Expertise: As Deputy Headteacher at Mount Charles School I developed effective ICT provision and played a key role in establishing the Literacy & Numeracy Strategies at the school.
● CPD: As Headteacher at Delabole Community Primary School (DfE Beacon Status) I developed a professional development programme to support teachers in other schools.
● Turnaround Expertise: My headship at Trevithick Community School, a school in an area of high deprivation, culminated in an 'Outstanding' Ofsted judgement in 2010. This success led to my designation as a National Leader in Education (NLE).
● System Leadership: I was subsequently seconded to run the Cornwall Primary SCITT, an 'Outstanding' initial teacher training provider. Later, I provided crucial leadership support as a seconded leader to both St Piran’s MAT and the Five Islands School, focusing on rapid Primary School improvement.
● MAT Foundation and Growth: I successfully founded Venture MAT with Trevithick Academy and St Issey School in 2016 before moving to lead St Barnabas.
I hold the NPQH qualification and have completed the National Institute of Teaching CEO Programme. My journey, from an EYFS specialist to a CEO leading a multi-academy trust, reflects a dedication to transformational change and a passion for holistic education.