Welcome to The Best of BEST 1 This year is a landmark year for the Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST), as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary. Over the coming pages you will read a little of our journey and what makes BEST a very special place to learn and grow. Our journey is characterised by unrivalled success. BEST has more than doubled in size, delivered Good or Outstanding Ofsted grades in all our nurseries and schools and secured long-term financial sustainability. Together, we have nurtured a vibrant community, with compassion at its heart. One judged by external review as: ‘leading the way on wellbeing in the educational sector’ (Juniper 2022) and described as: ‘A special place where schools keep their own identity, but never stand alone. Support is genuine, trust is earned and values guide every choice’. (BEST Executive 2026) BEST is distinctive in that we encourage all our nurseries and schools to nurture their own identities, where values are lived and community needs are met. All interpret our mission – to grow the BEST in everyone – differently; all treasure difference and prize the unique. We have a high autonomy approach and are nationally acclaimed for placing wellbeing at the core of everything we do. As part of our 10 year celebrations, we launched a Big Community Listen. Over 1000 community members spoke. We listened and the findings will shape the next 10 years of BEST. Of course, it was pleasing that 92% of parents praised BEST schools. Nonetheless, the goal is always 100%! On our Mission, Vision and Values Day, as the Founding CEO of BEST I praised and thanked all the heroes past and present whose service has brought us to this point. I also described how leading our community for its first 10 years has been the highlight of my career and an absolute joy. BEST is in a great position. A proven track record of success and direction from the Big Community Listen; highly talented and dedicated staff and governors; supportive parents/carers and the most wonderful young people ever, all promise that the future for BEST is about to get even better. Dr Alan Lee, CEO, BEST
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