“I believe Wise Owl Trust is destined to become one of the key leaders in education in Manchester and beyond.”

“If I was to say it was a total transformation at our schools it would be an underestimation,” he recalls. "We have now got a trust school that is among the best in the country and the figures support that in educational results. Now I think the whole ethos and atmosphere of the Trust is second to none.“

A trustee since 2013, Jim took over as Chair of the Trust in 2020 having previously been Chair of the governors at Seymour Road. No stranger to high profile public positions, Jim has also served as Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council and Deputy Leader of Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commission.

He believes the success of the Trust lies in its R.E.S.P.E.C.T. agenda and passion for positive change in the whole community.

“Wise Owl wears its principles very much on its sleeve,” he says. “Everyone can see the core values and that they produce very high standards. They look at the whole child and how that support is needed for parents and the whole community.”

Now he believes the time is right for the Trust to expand expertise to encourage change locally and nationally.

“We have got the foundation, track record, experience and knowledge of producing very high standards across three schools,” he says. “We are in a position now to step up, and share our proven approach to school improvement.  

“Not only will communities benefit from Wise Owl but we can transform the individual futures of pupils. There is no reason why all children can’t fulfil their ambitions and educational potential. We are excited for the future ahead.”