Our new blog series ‘Spotlight on Staff’ has been launched to showcase the great team we have here at Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust. 

We are keen to introduce you to the large team of fantastic staff we have across the Trust and to give you an insight into the work they do as we strive to serve our stakeholders and improve the life chances of the students in our schools.

Elizabeth Underwood, Executive Principal, joins us as the next guest for Spotlight on Staff

Can you give a brief overview of your role at the Trust and some information about your career so far?

I work with leaders and teachers across all 14 primary schools in Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust, engaging with the best external thinking to develop rigorous Trust-wide approaches to curriculum and learning beyond the classroom. Through co-operative practices, we strive to create an ambitious learning culture in which young people and adults succeed and flourish. Our aim is to ensure that all of our children’s educational experiences are rich, challenging and diverse to enable them to engage and contribute as local, national and global citizens.

It is so inspiring to share a collective ambition and responsibility for pedagogical excellence where a culture of solidarity drives continuous reflection, feedback and development.

Another strand of my role extends to working with our 6 Church of England schools to support leaders and teachers to continue to develop their school’s distinctive Christian vision, within a culture and ethos which enables all pupils and adults to flourish.

What do you enjoy most about working for the Trust?

I love the variety that each new day brings, working with leaders and teaching staff across all schools, who are so dedicated to enriching the teaching and learning in our classrooms. Their passion and dedication is truly inspiring and motivational.

How would you describe your team/ people you work with?

I work with a team of totally professional and inspirational people who are passionate about driving and enacting transformational learning in our classrooms.

What are the main challenges that you face within the sector?

Funding for schools.

If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

Don’t over-think things! Everything will make sense someday. Keep reminding yourself everything really does happen for a reason.