Outwood Family of Schools shortlisted for two regional awards
The Outwood Family of Schools (Outwood Grange Academies Trust - OGAT) has been recognised with two prestigious award nominations in the Yorkshire region, highlighting its commitment to community impact and leadership.
The Connect Yorkshire Business Awards are held annually to celebrate the dedication of its members within the local and national business community, aiming to recognise outstanding businesses, organisations and individuals who deserve greater visibility. OGAT, which operates 41 schools across the North of England, is shortlisted for the Community Impact Award and the Community Hero Award.
The Trust's 'Out There' programme has been nominated in the Community Impact category, which celebrates an organisation that has demonstrated a profound positive effect on its community.
'Out There' is a student community action challenge that empowers students across the Outwood Family to lead and deliver community projects in their local areas.
The initiative was created in the autumn of 2024 as a direct response to a summer of unrest and disruption that affected many OGAT-served communities, coupled with students expressing a strong desire to challenge negative stereotypes of young people and showcase their potential. Running for the first time this summer, students successfully delivered over 100 projects.
Lee Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at OGAT, has been nominated for the Community Hero Award for transforming the strategic direction of the Trust to place community at the heart of education.
In his first year as CEO, he led a refresh of the Trust's strategy to provide holistic, place-based support for families, expanding vital family and community support. This strategy included establishing three dedicated family hubs that offer safe spaces and access to support. A flagship example is Hub House in Wakefield, which provides a uniform shop, youth clubs, mental health services, and adult learning programmes. The Trust is committed to early help and multi-agency partnerships, enabling families to access urgent essentials like beds, food, clothing, and housing advice.
The nomination recognises Lee Wilson’s ability to unite schools, families, and businesses around a shared purpose, transforming the Trust into a catalyst for regional renewal. His long-term ambition is to create a national blueprint for place-based education.
The Connect Yorkshire Awards will be held on Thursday, November 20, at the AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium. The event will also raise funds for its official charity partner for the evening, Candlelighters, which supports families affected by childhood cancer.
