Multi-academy trust, the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), has appointed two leading professionals to further strengthen its highly experienced leadership team.

Former national schools commissioner, Sir David Carter has been appointed as a member of ATLP, and Councillor Alex Yip (Sutton Wylde Green ward) is joining the ATLP board as a trustee. 

ATLP CEO Richard Gill CBE said: “We’re pleased and privileged to welcome David and Alex to our family of schools. Both are highly regarded in their professions and both are committed to improving education and opportunities for the children and communities we serve. They join us during an exciting time of growth and development as we realise our ‘One Trust’ vision to help all schools excel.

“I would also like to thank the brilliant Mick Waters, who leaves ATLP after five years of loyal service, as a member.”

Sir David Carter was the national schools commissioner from 2016 to 2018, with a focus on building capacity and school improvement across multi-academy trusts. 

He was one of the first national leaders of education (NLEs) and received a knighthood for services to education in the Queen’s birthday honours in 2013.

David, who joins the ATLP as a member, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the ATLP. This growing partnership is committed to raising standards, by leading on the school improvement agenda.  I’ve known Richard for a number of years, and I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated and inspirational leader, along with other professionals, who are committed to improving the outcomes and experiences of all children.”

Joining him is Councillor Alex Yip, Sutton Wylde Green ward, Birmingham City Council, who has been a Birmingham magistrate since 2009, a school governor since 2007 and a trustee of the City of Birmingham Orchestra (CBSO) since 2018.

He has volunteered across Africa through the Conservatives Friends of International Development (CFID) programmes, teaching budding entrepreneurs business skills in Rwanda and Tanzania in 2017 and 2018.

As the Shadow Cabinet Member for Vulnerable Children and Families, he focuses on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) matters for the city. He was also a parliamentary candidate standing in Edgbaston during the 2019 general elections.

Alex (pictured), who joins the ATLP Trust Board as a trustee, said: “I welcome this opportunity to serve on ATLP’s trust board. I’m passionate about education and supporting our communities. Through this work, we can make a lasting difference to the lives of so many, and that is a rewarding prospect.”

John Vickers, chair of the ATLP Trust Board, said: “It’s an honour to welcome David and Alex to our Partnership, along with the expertise and experience they bring. ATLP is stronger because of the fantastic support and challenge from our volunteer members, trustees and local governors. This includes Mick Waters, who we thank for his outstanding contribution over the last five years.”

ATLP’s new governance structure includes the introduction of the Governance and Consultation Network and new local school advocates, who will provide targeted support in an advisory capacity to their school, group of schools and the Partnership.

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