Stepping into The Arena at Bett 2026, the audience was taken on a journey through nearly three decades of change in education and EdTech. In conversation with Mick Waters, Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, reflected on a remarkable career spanning 28 years of innovation, leadership and impact.

As he prepares to retire, Sir Mark reflected on the journey from his early days as a headteacher in Smethwick to leading a trust supporting 7,000 students and 1,000 staff, all underpinned by a clear belief in education’s power to transform lives.

Building a culture where people thrive

When asked what “collegiate” truly means at Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, Sir Mark’s answer centred on people. For him, leadership has never been about rigid accountability or hierarchy, but about creating an environment where staff and students feel trusted, supported and empowered to succeed.

His approach to leadership has shaped a culture that feels more like a family than an institution, with collaboration and care sitting at its heart. That culture has also driven impressive staff retention, with many former students even returning to work within the Trust themselves, a powerful example of Shireland’s “grow your own” philosophy in action.

Why EdTech remains a “great leveller”

Fresh from receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bett Awards 2026, Sir Mark spoke passionately about the role technology continues to play in education. Describing EdTech as a “great leveller”, he highlighted its ability to extend learning beyond the classroom and strengthen connections between schools and families.

But for Sir Mark, technology works best when it gives teachers more time to do what humans do best. Rather than replacing creativity or connection, EdTech should take care of the “heavy lifting”, reducing workload pressures and creating more space for meaningful teaching and learning.

Looking ahead, he acknowledged that artificial intelligence will inevitably shape the next chapter of education innovation. The challenge, and opportunity,  for the sector is ensuring AI is used purposefully to support educators, ease pressures and improve outcomes for learners.

Championing a curriculum beyond the basics

Throughout his career, Sir Mark has remained committed to delivering a broad and balanced curriculum, even when wider policy pressures pushed schools towards narrowing their offer. Arts, design and technology, and physical education have all remained central to the Shireland experience because, as he explained, education should inspire curiosity, creativity and ambition in every child.

That commitment has led to partnerships that bring learning to life. From collaborating with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra to welcoming world-class musicians into classrooms, to working alongside organisations including the Hippodrome, Aston Villa Football Club and a local professional basketball team, the Trust has consistently looked beyond the school gates to create richer opportunities for young people.

Innovation has also played a key role in addressing real-world challenges. In response to NHS recruitment shortages, the Trust adapted a University Technical College to deliver a health-focused curriculum for students aged 11 to 19, helping young people explore meaningful pathways into future careers.

A legacy that will shape future generations

As Sir Mark prepares to step down after 12 years as Chief Executive, he admitted there are parts of the system he will not miss, particularly unnecessary bureaucracy. But it is the people, relationships and shared sense of purpose that he says will stay with him.

Ending the session with a call to action for future education leaders, Sir Mark encouraged the sector to take ownership of upcoming changes to the National Curriculum and SEND reforms, ensuring educators remain active voices in shaping the future of education.

Closing the conversation, Mick Waters captured the mood in the room perfectly, reflecting that generations of children will look back with gratitude at the impact Sir Mark and his schools have had on their lives.

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