East Midlands Education Trust (EMET) is a partnership of schools originally formed in September 2014. The trust has 24 schools with a tight geographical focus on the counties of Nottinghamshire, Nottingham City, Derbyshire, Derby City  and Leicestershire.  

Our mission is to raise the educational standards and improve the life chances of all the children within our partnership.  Our schools are high performing schools representing the full age range of 3-19, along with an alternative education provider, and place great emphasis on collaborative working across the Trust within a family of schools approach.

Our schools enjoy a high degree of ‘aligned autonomy’ whilst, at the same time, being supported by a central trust team who help ensure our schools provide the highest quality of provision possible.  

EMET welcomes new chief executive

The East Midlands Education Trust (EMET) has announced that Paul Smith will become its new chief executive after the Easter holidays.

Paul joins the trust with extensive leadership experience from across the education system. His career includes headship in both primary and secondary schools, senior national responsibility as a Regional Director (then known as Regional Schools Commissioners) for the Department for Education, and the chief executive role in three academy trusts.

The appointment marks an exciting moment for EMET as the trust looks ahead to its next phase of development. With strong foundations already established across Nottinghamshire, Nottingham City, Derbyshire, Derby City and Leicestershire, Paul will support schools and colleagues to build on what has been achieved and strengthen EMET’s role as a leading voice in the sector.

Speaking about the appointment, Paul said: “I am excited to lead the next phase of EMET as we create world class opportunities for children, staff, and communities in the region. I believe in the power of education beyond exam results, and I am committed to ensuring that all children have the best experience, education, and future. I look forward to getting to know the organisation and spending time with colleagues and young people.”

Ann Witheford, chair of EMET, added: “Paul brings a wealth of insight from across the education system and a clear commitment to children and communities. This is an exciting moment for the trust, and the board looks forward to working with Paul as we build on our successes and shape the next phase of EMET’s development.”

More information about opportunities for staff, governors, and partners to meet Paul will be shared after the Easter break.