Pathfinder Schools is experiencing rapid transformation across a wide range of key areas which in turn, has required the expertise of EPM to ensure the new vision and mission of the Trust is secured. EPM has proved crucial and has provided Pathfinder Schools with much-needed specialist capacity by providing specific support for HR and trade union relations.

In October 2023, we were introduced to EPM by another CEO of a Multi-Academy Trust because of us requiring additional expertise and capacity to establish effective relations with the teaching unions.

How we helped

Strong relationships were swiftly secured with EPM from our first meeting, this was due to EPM listening to our situation with intent, very quickly understanding our complex situation and introducing us to the appropriate account manager whose specialist areas met our needs and producing a clear project plan. We continued to develop our relationships through several training courses led by EPM that also facilitated networking with other Trust leaders. Our confidence in EPM’s capabilities was very strong from the outset and as a result, trust was secured very quickly.

I would like to share one specific high-risk challenge EPM supported us with.  Due to the rapid transformation being implemented across the network, this caused unrest amongst staff within one academy which ultimately led to strike action via one union. This scenario was particularly complex as it became apparent that Pathfinder Schools was being utilised as an opportunity for the union to drive their national agenda and therefore, reluctant to engage in negotiations with the intention to avoid strike action.

It became clear, very quickly, that we required immediate and intensive support from EPM from March to date. With one phone call, EPM responded with professional rigour. They understood the risk and therefore the speed with which we needed to work at and immediately put in place a project plan and became the lead negotiator. Not only did EPM act as the lead negotiator, but they provided Pathfinder Schools with invaluable advice and worked in collaboration with the external public relations company we had also recruited. Without any doubt, Pathfinder Schools would not have been able to navigate this complex situation without EPM’s expertise. The support, through transparent advice with the Trust’s vision and mission at the heart, the executive team felt safe and secure with EPM at the helm. This cannot be underestimated.

The results

Through the work of EPM, the union decided to postpone strike actions and positive negotiations are now in place. This would not have been the case had we not been working with EPM. The executive team of Pathfinder Schools has also been provided excellent supervision from EPM because of their knowledge base and strong decision-making. EPM’s unwavering drive to secure a positive outcome for all stakeholders was key to the successful progress of our situation.

I unreservedly recommend EPM and I would urge any Multi-Academy Trust who requires expert support regarding concerns centred around HR and trade union relations to contact EPM without any hesitation.