Flexible working support: a programme for Multi-Academy Trusts and Schools

About the programme

Capita, funded by the Department for Education (DfE), are delivering a programme to promote flexible working practices in Multi-Academy Trusts and schools, which includes a series of free training and support webinars.

Webinar and resource topics will include, amongst others, implementing flexible working, best practice and case studies, diversity in the workforce and co‑leadership and job sharing.

Important changes from 6 April to flexible working legislation, login to find out more

Alongside our partner Flexible Teacher Talent, and in partnership with Flexible Working Ambassador Multi-Academy Trusts and Schools (FWAMS), we are delivering a programme to support schools to adopt flexible working.

The programme will support school leaders to design flexible roles, adopt a proactive approach and navigate the challenges flexible working can pose in schools.

The programme will increase awareness of the benefits of flexible working and the full range of flexible working practices available, which can include part-time working, job sharing, home or remote working, phased retirement and personal/family days.

Flexible Working Ambassador Multi-Academy Trusts and Schools (FWAMS) have been appointed by the DfE to provide bespoke peer support to school leaders to assist them to establish a culture of flexible working in their schools. 

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Future courses and recordings

Flexible working as a school improvement tool
Join us for a one-hour session where we delve into the role of flexible working strategies in enhancing school improvement, with a particular focus on pupil behaviour and attendance. We'll challenge the misconception that flexible working is incompatible with maintaining high standards in schools. Through practical examples, we'll demonstrate how these strategies can positively impact school improvement.
School leaders, Business/HR leaders, Governors/Trustees
18/03/25
11:00
Online
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Identifying and communicating a vision for flexible working
Join us for this session, which aims to support you in defining and creating a vision for implementing flexible working.

We’ll explore the drivers and priorities for change, as well as how to effectively communicate this vision to colleagues to encourage buy-in.
School, Trust Leaders, HR and Business Leaders
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Flexible working and early teaching careers
This session we discuss how the need to work flexibly is something that we are all likely to need, and possibly be able to do, at some point in our working lives. This webinar has a particular focus on ECTs, highlighting the value of flexible working in supporting teacher recruitment and retention. If flexible working is to be successful, there are obligations and expectations of the employer and employee. During the session we look at the likely and particular nature of support required for ECTs who work flexibly.
School Leaders supporting ECTs and ECTs
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Embracing flexible working - regional workshop (Midlands)
This engaging workshop is dedicated to highlighting the importance of flexible working for trusts and schools in the Midlands region. This session will provide you with guidance on designing a flexible working strategy. You will leave having received practical advice regarding the implementation of flexible working practices.

School/Business/HR leaders, Governors/Trustees - Midlands
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The governance role in flexible working
During this webinar we explored the prevalence and benefits of flexible working, how boards can promote and support greater employee flexibility, and share examples of effective governance practice working alongside senior leaders in schools and trusts.

We aim to give trustees and governors, and those they work with, the confidence and knowledge needed in order to be more flexible employers and begin to address recruitment and retention issues.
School leaders, Business/HR leaders, Governors/Trustees
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Embracing flexible working - regional workshop (North of England)
This workshop is dedicated to highlighting the importance of flexible working for trusts and schools in the North of England region. This session will provide you with guidance on designing a flexible working strategy. You will leave having received practical advice regarding the implementation of flexible working practices.
School leaders, Business/HR leaders, Governors/Trustees
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‘It won’t work here’ – practical tips for timetablers
During this panel discussion we aim to help schools address timetabling barriers to flexible working. We will discuss when and how to factor flexible working in to timetabling processes. You will also hear about challenges that have been overcome and receive top tips for resolving timetabling issues you may encounter. This session will be helpful for school leaders and timetablers. However, anyone with an interest in this area is welcome to watch.
School leaders and timetablers
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Co-Headship
In this session we explore different models for co-headship and how co-heads make their case at interview for flexible working. We discuss how co-headship provides a collaborative partnership model which can help to make headship more desirable and sustainable for great leaders who we need to retain and promote. Case-studies are presented to examine the opportunities and potential challenges of this model of school leadership.
Teachers, School leaders, Business/HR leaders, Governors/Trustee
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Supporting resources

Case study - Flexible working at Lighthouse School
16/01/25
Lighthouse School is a unique secondary school dedicated to providing high-quality, destination-led learning for students with a diagnosis of autism. Their commitment to excellence extends not only to their students but also to their staff, ensuring they have the support and flexibility they need to thrive.
Case Study - The success of flexible working at New Bridge Multi-Academy Trust
16/01/25
At New Bridge MAT, a specialist Multi-Academy Trust with a number of special schools including SEMH schools, they have always strived to be an employer of choice. Their journey towards flexible working began when their CEO first engaged with the Flexible Working Ambassador programme.
Thought piece - flexible working at all stages of career
11/12/24
Dr Suzanne Brown is a Senior Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education at the Sheffield Institute of Education. Her research interests and publications are around flexible working in the teaching profession as part of improving teacher recruitment and retention. In this article she explores the importance of teachers being able to work flexibly at all stages of their careers.
Thought piece - More than just part-time: Five types of flexible working for teachers (SecEd Best Practice)
21/10/24
In this latest Sec Ed Best Practice article, one of our FWAMS corrects the latest press narratives on flexible working in schools. Neil Renton considers five approaches and urges schools to begin experimenting if they want to hold onto their teachers.
Creating a flexible working strategy - why, how, what
27/09/24
Creating a flexible working strategy - why, how, what
Thought piece - Balancing acts: navigating flexible work, religious days and cultural sensitivity in schools.
18/07/24
In this blog, we’ll delve into Nazia Aslam’s experiences of navigating flexible working to accommodate her religious practices and the importance of promoting cultural understanding across different backgrounds. 
Case study - Trusts leading the way: promoting loyalty and well-being through flexibility
17/07/24
Case study - As a Senior School Improvement Lead at the Athelstan Trust, Michelle embodies the spirit of flexibility. Her team, composed entirely of part-time professionals, has embraced flexible working arrangements, and the results have been nothing short of remarkable.
Case study - A model of flexible work-life integration
17/07/24
Case study - Ben Newark has integrated flexible working into his work-life to commit time to his family responsibilities.
Thought piece - A consideration of the Timelines inherent in flexible working requests
28/03/24
A consideration of the Timelines inherent in flexible working requests by John Faulconbridge
Flexible working in our school (DfE blog)
28/02/24
Emily Crow, deputy director at London South Teaching School Hub, shares Charles Dickens’ approach to flexible working and her experience of the benefits it has brought to the school community.
Adjustment questions resource
02/02/24
Adjustment questions resource - requested during the 'Introduction to the Flexible Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Delivery Network - Q&A' webinar.

Register for free access to live webinars, workshops, on demand training, resources and to send questions directly to our flexible working experts.

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This programme is funded by the Department for Education but this website should not be interpreted as Governmental policy. Please see here for Department for Education Policy.