CEO Christmas Blog

I have now had the privilege of being the CEO for Valley Invicta Academies Trust (VIAT) for two terms – it’s been incredibly busy but also extremely rewarding.

At the end of term, I was delighted to be able to confirm a 6.5% pay increase, agreed by the Trust Board, for staff across the Trust (and a slightly higher raise for those on the VIAT living wage), as well as a brand new Health Cash Plan which will be implemented in the New Year.

Health cash plans provide financial support towards dental and optical costs, diagnostic testing and alternative and complimentary therapies. They also provide online GP services and comprehensive support for mental health and wellbeing, as well as other additional perks.

It’s a real priority for me to ensure the Trust looks after its staff, to recognise and acknowledge their hard work and commitment in what can be a really challenging, fast-paced and intense environment. I’m very lucky to have a workforce of dedicated, professional individuals who are absolutely passionate about what they do, but I hope the pay increase and the new health scheme will go some way to show my, and the Trust’s, appreciation of each and every one of them.

As we approach Christmas – a time that is full of festivities for some, but much more difficult for others – I hope that everyone within the VIAT family, staff and pupils/students, will have the opportunity for a well-earned break. For me, it’s a time to look forward and to build on the foundations we have laid in the first two terms of this academic year. I’m excited to see what 2024 will bring.