Embark Federation

What does the “Me at my Best” performance management process look like across the Embark family? 💙❤️

We asked colleagues in our recent Staff Survey to share feedback on their experience of Me at my Best conversations. Here’s what they said:

“It focused on strengths and wellbeing rather than just data.”

“A safe place for productive conversations.”

“A friendly, warm and motivational conversation.”

“I felt listened to, respected and my concerns have been actioned.”

“It felt more person focused.”

“Supportive, transparent and encouraging.”

“It was a good opportunity to reflect on my role and my aspirations going forward.”

At Embark, we believe professional conversations should empower, support and develop our people, creating a culture where colleagues feel heard, valued and able to thrive.

4 WEEKS TO GO ✨

The countdown is officially on to the Embark Awards 2026 🎉

In just four weeks, we’ll come together to celebrate the incredible young people across the Embark family who live out our values of Family, Integrity, Teamwork and Success every single day.

We cannot wait to recognise the achievements, resilience, kindness and dedication of our nominees and winners at what is always one of the most special evenings in the Embark calendar!

Welcome back, Embark Family!

Have the best half term!

Safeguarding remains at the heart of everything we do across the Embark family!

Some of our Embark family came together this morning for Designated Safeguarding Lead training, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding across all of our schools.

Sessions like these provide valuable opportunities for our leaders to strengthen their knowledge, share best practice and stay informed on the latest guidance and responsibilities.

By continuing to invest in professional development and collaboration, we help ensure our schools remain safe, supportive and nurturing environments where every young person can thrive.

Thank you to everyone involved in supporting this vital work.

The latest edition of the Embark Governance Newsletter has been released today! 🎉

This edition includes:
✨ Summer 1 governance highlights
📚 PEx and Suspension Training updates
🏫 Ofsted updates
📅 Summer 2 LGT meeting guidance
📰 GovernorHub bulletin updates
📍 Upcoming LGT Forum dates and reminders

You can find the full newsletter now on GovernorHub. Thank you to everyone across our governance family for your continued dedication and support 💜

🚴‍♂️ A huge congratulations to Rob Hull, Headteacher at Kilburn Junior School, who successfully completed the 107-mile Cosy Bike and Hike ride from Derby to Skegness in support of Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre and Derby Kids’ Camp.

Rob took on the challenge alongside his son Rufus, while pupils from Years 3 to 6 at Kilburn Junior School joined in with their own “Scootathon”, collectively aiming to match the impressive distance by cycling and scooting laps around the playground. 🚲🛴

The charities supported by the event provide unforgettable holiday experiences for children, including many from Embark schools, and it was fantastic to see the whole school community come together to support such an important cause.

We’re incredibly proud of Rob, the staff, pupils and families at Kilburn Junior School for their enthusiasm, determination and community spirit throughout the challenge. 💙

Read more about the challenge here:
https://penguinpr.co.uk/newscentre/2026/05/12/head-teacher-rob-lays-down-a-challenge-as-he-gears-up-for-the-cosy-bike-and-hike/

Today we came together for our Trust Board meeting, reflecting on the progress, challenges and opportunities across Embark.

From Trust Leader updates and committee highlights to engagement survey insights, people and culture discussions, and finance updates, it was a valuable opportunity to share, listen and shape the journey ahead together.

A huge thank you to our Trustees for the support, challenge and guidance they bring so generously. As volunteers, their commitment, time and belief in our schools and communities make a lasting difference, and we are incredibly grateful for all they do. 💙