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- Yola Wilkins
I joined Bourne Education Trust in 2014, initially working within our schools before taking on broader Trust-wide roles as part of the central team in 2023. Having worked at both school and Trust level, I have a deep understanding of our organisation, our schools and the communities they serve.
During my time within BET, I have led a wide range of strategic and organisational projects, including the successful opening of Hopescourt School, our specialist free school in Walton-on-Thames. My role has continued to evolve as BET has grown, progressing from school-based leadership into senior Trust-wide roles and, most recently, to Chief Strategy Officer.
Before joining BET, I spent over 13 years' in the Civil Service, building extensive experience in strategic and business leadership, policy implementation and working across complex public-sector organisations. Much of my career focused on policies affecting children and young people, and I held a number of leadership roles in the South East working closely with local authorities and specialising in education policy and implementation.
As Chief Strategy Officer, I lead the development and delivery of BET’s long-term strategy, working across the organisation to translate our ambitions into coherent and sustainable action. My role brings together strategy, transformation, growth and innovation, ensuring that the Trust remains future-focused, resilient and responsive to the changing needs of our schools and communities. I provide executive leadership for major change and digital transformation, strategic growth and the integration of new schools, alongside leading our governance, risk and assurance arrangements.
Throughout my career, I have remained passionate about the difference that excellent public services and great schools can make to children and young people. I believe that effective organisations create the conditions in which people can do their best work, and I am proud to play a part in ensuring that, as BET continues to evolve and grow, we remain ambitious for every child and young person we serve.