Cat Rushton serves as the Director of the Institute at Academy Transformation Trust, leading the professional development offer for a broad and diverse network of academies. In her role, Cat plays a pivotal part in driving school improvement by leading large-scale professional development initiatives. Under her leadership, the Institute extends its impact beyond the trust, forming key strategic partnerships, delivering accredited programs, and working on innovative projects that support ongoing progress in professional development across the sector. Previously, Cat worked as a science teacher and advanced through various leadership roles, where she led curriculum and pedagogy at department, whole school, and trust levels.