Oasis Community Learning shortlisted for three categories of the MAT Excellence Awards 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Oasis Community Learning have been shortlisted for three categories of the MAT Excellence Awards 2024.

Presented by Optimus Education, in partnership with the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), the awards are an exciting event to recognise the outstanding work and commitment of multi-academy trusts around the country.

Our work around inclusivity, digital innovation and community has all been recognised by the judges.

Gemma Bolton-Hale, our Gender Network Advocate and RE/PSHE Teacher at Oasis Academy Oldham, led on our Inclusivity application explaining how Oasis is driven by a ‘passion to include’, which is at the heart of everything we do. She shared that we proudly work in some of the most challenging contexts in the country and do all that we can to make sure people’s voices are heard and valued. We support everybody to thrive in an environment that not just accepts but celebrates everyone.

Emily Hobson, National Lead for Primary Strategy and Innovation, led on our application for the Digital Innovation Award.  She explained that embedding technology into our primary approach, including individual iPads for all students and staff across 33 primary schools, allows us to analyse children’s needs so that we can tailor our approach in real-time, offering them the support they need whilst reducing teacher workload.

Janet Berry, Oasis Community Partnerships National Director, led on our application for the Community Trust of the Year Award.  She explained that it is through the partnership between Oasis Community Partnerships and Oasis Community Learning that we are able to develop Oasis "Hubs", providing wide-ranging and integrated services around our academies; supporting disadvantaged children, young people, whole families, and members of the wider community. This approach empowers local people to transform their neighbourhoods into places that are healthy, safe, supportive and full of opportunity.

John Barneby, CEO of OCL said: "Whilst it is in our nature at Oasis to be humble, I think we should take great pride in these nominations. They are a public recognition of our staff across the country who work hard every day to deliver community transformation through innovation and inclusion. Often their work goes under the radar or unnoticed, but today we celebrate them. Congratulations to everybody involved in these areas of work, and thank you for everything that you do for our students and communities.”

A massive thank you and congratulations to Gemma, Emily and Janet for taking the time to complete the applications.  And a massive thank you and congratulations to every one of you, our staff and students.  Without your hard work, day in and day out, none of this would be possible.  Together we are Oasis.