To the Stars: Strategic Trust Leadership in Challenging Times – Ad Astra's Andy Brown Shares Insights

In this episode of the Schools North East Podcast, we speak with Andy Brown, CEO of Ad Astra Academy Trust, about his 47-year journey in education and the strategic leadership needed to guide a multi-academy trust through both growth and challenge.

Andy shares insights on:

• Leading with purpose across diverse school communities

• Developing internal leadership pipelines and planning for succession

• Tackling financial pressures while maintaining reserves

• Advocating for SEND funding reform and Ofsted restructuring

• Launching a SCITT to invest in teacher development

Discover how Ad Astra’s mission — to the stars — is grounded in values-driven leadership, inclusion, and unwavering commitment to giving every child their one chance to succeed.