Don Wry

CEO & Accounting Officer, HEARTS Academy Trust

Don Wry is CEO of HEARTS Academy Trust. With over 18 years of experience across primary and secondary education, he has led schools and trust-wide improvement in some of the most diverse and challenging contexts in the South of England. Known for combining strategic thinking with practical implementation, Don has a strong track record of improving outcomes, strengthening inclusion and building sustainable systems that support both pupils and staff. An Evidence Lead in Education for Essex Research School, Don also works with schools and trusts to translate evidence into practice and support sustainable improvement at scale. His areas of expertise include curriculum design and strategy, organisational effectiveness, leadership development and system leadership and building high-performing trust cultures.

Hall 10b

1 Breakout sessions: Series one

Curriculum design at trust scale: The power of belonging, culture, and community

This strategic case study explores how HEARTS Academy Trust has improved outcomes across diverse and disadvantaged communities through a trust-wide approach to culture, curriculum, and implementation. The session will consider the leadership decisions that shaped the approach, how to embed high expectations, forge strong relationships, and design a curriculum that creates equity of opportunity, and expands aspiration and enrichment. We will explore the role of trust culture, belonging, and the marginal gains that often make the greatest difference. Ideal for trust leaders responsible for curriculum, education and school improvement, including chief executives and directors of education.