As part of our new education feature, we’re spending a day in the life of key individuals who serve our schools across the archdiocese.

Next up is Andrew Truby, who has been CEO of St Joseph’s Catholic Multi Academy Trust (CMAT) since 2022.

We join Andrew for a typically busy yet varied working day to gain insight into how the trust lives out its mission to transform the lives of its children.

6am

A strong coffee is the foundation of any good morning! My colleagues know not to ask me anything too complex until I’ve had at least two decent coffees.

I split my time between Liverpool and my home in Derbyshire. Today I’m in Liverpool, which means I can walk to the office – picking up a flat white on the way to help fuel the day ahead.

8am

My first meeting is a headteacher briefing with all the trust’s headteachers. We meet virtually on a regular basis; it’s a chance for me to share updates from the trust, and for them to bring good news stories, challenges or key developments from their schools.

Serious issues do land on my desk from time to time. Schools face all kinds of challenges – the good, the bad and the ugly – but being part of a trust means no one has to face them alone. We have a strong support network in place, from communications and media support to legal and HR expertise. Whatever a school is facing, there are specialists ready to help.

10am

Next, I meet with my central team. When the trust began in January 2022, it was just me. Today, we have 30 full-time staff. Around 10 are based in our Liverpool office, while others work out in schools or across our education team, supporting colleagues on site.

In April, Archbishop John Sherrington announced a significant development for the future of Catholic education: all archdiocesan schools will transition into one of three Catholic Multi-Academy Trusts (CMATs).

This means we are planning significant growth over the next five years. The trust will expand from 10 to 66 schools, and our team will grow to around 120 staff.

We are committed to growing efficiently and sustainably. Many of our staff will be based within schools or local hubs, ensuring we remain closely connected to our communities. We are developing three hubs – two in Liverpool and one in St Helens – with dedicated teams who understand the unique needs and challenges of each school and its community.

There is real excitement within the team about welcoming new colleagues. We know there is a wealth of talent within the schools joining us, and we are looking forward to building those relationships.

At the heart of our success is people – individuals working collectively with a shared mission: to transform the lives of young people.

12pm

My schedule is always busy, so I often work through lunch. However, I actively encourage our staff to take a proper break – whether that’s spending time together in our breakout space or going for a walk to support their wellbeing.

Today, we’re hosting an event in the office, so I use my lunchtime to speak with attendees. There’s also a headteacher working here for the day, using the space for strategic planning. It’s a great way for them to connect with the team and get immediate support when needed.

2pm

This afternoon, I’m visiting one of our schools. As we approach the end of the academic year, there are lots of presentations and celebrations taking place.

This is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. I really value being in our schools – speaking to staff, governors and pupils, and seeing first-hand how they are thriving.

6pm

We’ve been busy meeting schools that will be joining St Joseph’s in the first wave – 18 in total – so I’ve been doing a lot of miles!

This evening, I have a governors’ meeting with one of those schools, alongside Joan McCarthy, Director of Education for the archdiocese. These meetings have been really positive, giving us the opportunity to hear directly from schools about their vision for the future.

Change can feel daunting, and it’s natural that some people have concerns. However, in every meeting, we emphasise our mission and our commitment to putting children first. We want schools to know that we are a warm, supportive trust – here to walk alongside them and serve their communities.

8pm

After the meeting, I drive back to Liverpool, making a few phone calls, sending a few messages via Siri (and laughing at how Siri interpretates what I’m saying!) and listening to music to unwind after a long day.

As I’m staying in Liverpool tonight, I meet a friend for dinner. Living in a small village in Derbyshire – with just one pub and a church – means I like to make the most of the city’s wide range of options when I’m here!