Windsor Academy Trust Hosts Inspiring Civic Leadership Webinar

25th April 2023

Today, Windsor Academy Trust (WAT) hosted a captivating and insightful webinar on Civic Leadership, featuring esteemed speakers Mick Donovan, Pro Vice Chancellor Partnerships at the University of Worcester, and Anji Barker, CEO of Newbigin Community Trust. The event was hosted by Claire Gething, Windsor Academy Trust's Director of Communications, who facilitated the discussions and guided the conversation.

The 45-minute webinar delved into the importance of schools as civic anchors within their communities and the essential roles that individuals can play as civic actors. With a focus on WAT's commitment to civic leadership, the event emphasised how schools and students thrive best when their communities do too.

Mick Donovan shared University of Worcester's journey as a leader in civic engagement, highlighting the institution's achievements and successes, including the Learning Through Sport programme, the University of Worcester Arena, and The Hive, a unique library open to the public. The audience gained valuable insights into how the university continues to make a positive impact in the local community.

Anji Barker then provided the community perspective, sharing her inspiring story of founding the Newbigin Community Trust in Winson Green, Birmingham. She discussed the challenges faced by families and young people in the area and how the trust has been able to make a difference through its welcoming and inclusive approach.

Throughout the webinar, both speakers offered invaluable advice for schools looking to establish or strengthen their civic connections and impact. The WAT family was encouraged to continue to get to know their communities better, build partnerships with community organisations, and find impactful ways to make a difference.