Neil Blundell

I have been working in and across the region for the last 13 years and understand the complexities and challenges of the system both nationally and within the South West. My work in opening two free schools, one secondary and one primary while growing a mixed MAT of nine schools, three secondary and six primary has taught me a great deal. During this time I have led a teaching school alliance and worked in a number of settings as an NLE, EE, coach, NPQEL facilitator, and Ofsted inspector. It has been wonderful to see how MAT’s have come together over the last few years recognising the need for collaboration rather than competition, we have much to learn from each other. My motivation to stand comes from a recognition that I have been fortunate to experience a good deal of the changes in education, building new schools, forming new structures, negotiating with other stakeholders such as LA’s and diocese representatives. I was recently involved in the setting up of a new cross county teaching school alliance and recognise the need for support at all levels after the last very difficult 2 years!