Michael McCarthy, formerly CEO of The Priestly Academy Trust based in Bradford, joins Consilium Academies as its new CEO. He takes the place of interim CEO Tracey Greenough. McCarthy brings a wealth of educational knowledge and expertise to Consilium with over 18 years of experience across the sector. Prior to his role as CEO at The Priestly Academy Trust he was Deputy CEO of the Tyne Coast Academy Trust, where he was promoted twice from Headteacher to Director of Primary to Deputy CEO. Consilium Academies, headquartered in Salford, includes nine secondary schools across the North West and North East of England. Its mission is to “enrich lives and inspire ambitions” for its 6,405 pupils, staff and the neighbouring communities its schools serve. The multi-academy trust, which includes an alternative provision academy, prides itself on its “distinctively inclusive ethos” and translates its six key values - excellence, partnerships, opportunity, integrity, equity and people-centred - into practice within its academies. Michael McCarthy said: “I was particularly drawn to Consilium’s values as they are fully aligned with my own, emphasising a people-centred approach and underscoring the significance of integrity alongside excellence. These principles resonate deeply with me, and I am eager to champion them as we look ahead to the next chapter.” Martin Fleetwood, Chair of the Consilium Trust Board, said: “We warmly welcome Michael to the Consilium family. He is fully committed to our vision of providing the highest-quality education that is truly inclusive, giving every one of our students the same opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in life beyond the classroom. Together we recognise that to realise our vision – of excellence and opportunity for all – we will work in close partnership so as to fuel our drive to transform the life chances of young people and their families within the communities we serve.”