What We’re Learning from MATs: A Reflection on Collaboration and Pupil Voice

When the Diocese of Sheffield Academies Trust (DSAT) came on board with us in March, it got us thinking about how far we’ve come in supporting Multi Academy Trusts, and how much further we can go.

Working with MATs has shown us just how powerful collaboration can be when it comes to raising pupil voice. It’s not just about bringing the Smart School Councils programme into each school. It’s about creating a shared culture across a whole Trust, one where every student feels heard and included.

Over the years, we’ve built brilliant partnerships with MATs like Cidari Multi Academy Trust, Keys Group, and now DSAT. What makes it work isn’t just the discounts or added features (though those certainly help!). It’s the way schools within a Trust can learn from each other, compare insights through shared impact reports, and build something meaningful together.

Our MAT packages are designed with that in mind. They offer a joined-up way of gathering student voice across multiple schools, backed by extra support, tailored guidance, and a central Trust-wide dashboard to keep it all connected.

If you're part of a MAT and curious about what’s possible, I’d love to chat. We’re always open to working with Trusts who want to embed inclusive pupil voice across their schools.

— Karen, Head of Memberships

To learn more about how a MAT package could work for you, get in touch at membership@smartschoolcouncils.org.uk