In this episode of The MAT Unpacked, Ed Nell and Chris Whiting take a different kind of conversation - one that steps outside the UK education system entirely to hear the story of Kerry Watson, founder of Footprints Family, a UK registered charity operating a school and children's home in the rural hills of Shimba Hills, Kenya.
Kerry shares how a volunteer trip in 2007, a piece of land bought for 500 pounds and 18 years of relentless determination have built a fully functioning school serving over 200 children.
Key Takeaways
Education is about far more than academic outcomes - and Footprints lives that belief.
From sanitary dignity workshops for girls to music, art, life skills and wellbeing conversations, the school is deliberately building the whole child, not just the test result.
Children who have experienced the most instability need belonging above everything else.
Kerry describes children who board Monday to Friday, who yearn to come to school, and who at 18 begin to process the losses that brought them to Footprints in the first place.
What the charity needs now is people, not just money.
Kerry has a trustworthy team in Kenya, good financial systems and a school that runs well. What she needs in the UK is bid writers, marketers, and people who can give a few hours a month.
Collaboration between UK trusts and Footprints Family could benefit everyone.
Teachers who volunteer gain perspective that transforms their practice. Kerry's team gain skills, resource and creative approaches. Chris is already planning a visit - and the invitation is open.
Key Moments
\"I'm just a mummy from Burton on Trent. If I could raise some money, this is possible.\"
\"They yearn for education. There is no oh, not school today. They just yearn for it.\"
\"It takes a village to raise a child. And I do believe that's right - the same here.\"
About The MAT Unpacked
The MAT Unpacked explores what effective leadership and governance look like inside Multi Academy Trusts. Hosted by Ed Nell and featuring regular co-host Chris Whiting from Academy Advisory, each episode brings together trust leaders and sector specialists to share practical insights, real experiences and lessons learned from across the education system.
The aim is simple - to open up conversations about how trusts can operate more effectively and ultimately improve outcomes for learners.
How to Get in Touch
To learn more about Academy Advisory or connect with the team:
Website: academyadvisory.com
LinkedIn: Academy Advisory
To find out more about Footprints Family or to get involved:
Website: www.footprintsfamily.com
Instagram and Facebook: Footprints Family
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