An ambitious strategy to drive attendance at a group of Birmingham schools is delivering impressive results – with a rate of improvement that is ten times faster than the national rate of improvement.
Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust (FMAT), which includes Fairfax Academy, Bournville All Through School, Erdington Academy and Smith’s Wood Academy, has implemented a Trust-wide strategy over the last two years that places attendance at the heart of school improvement.
And this week education chiefs at the Trust revealed figures that now place it in the top 10 most improved schools nationally.
In 2023/24, attendance at FMAT’s increased by 1.3%. Then, in 2024/25, the Trust recorded a further 1.6% rise — double the national rate of improvement.
And in Autumn 2025, for the first time since the pandemic, every FMAT academy achieved attendance above 90% by the end of the first half-term.
Martyn Jobling, Director of Education at FMAT, said: “This success is the result of robust systems, dedicated teams, and a shared belief that attendance is everyone’s responsibility.
“From classroom teachers to pastoral staff and attendance officers, every colleague has played a vital role in creating schools where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to attend.”
These figures are particularly notable given the national context. With average attendance currently at 92.8%, FMAT’s rate of improvement is ten times faster than the national rate of improvement and is being achieved in communities facing significant socio-economic challenges.
The Trust’s strategy demonstrates that with the right culture and commitment, sustained improvement is possible – with the results reflected across all four schools.
Sean Castle, Principal at Fairfax Academy, said “We’ve embedded a culture where attendance is everyone’s responsibility. It’s not just about tracking data — it’s about relationships, routines, and relentless follow-up.”
Marie Rooney, Principal at Bournville All Through School, said: “Our staff go above and beyond to ensure students feel safe, supported and valued. That’s why they come in — because they know they matter.”
Erdington Academy Principal Simon Mallett said: “Our pastoral team has been instrumental in identifying barriers to attendance and responding with compassion and practical support. That’s what makes the difference.”
Stephen Huntington, Principal at Smith’s Wood Academy, added: “This improvement is no accident. It’s the result of consistent leadership, clear expectations, and an unwavering belief that every day in school counts.”
For more on Fairfax Academy, click here.
For more on Erdington Academy, click here.