Campbell Award - Network Leader | Local Influencer

Recognising national concerns around attendance, inequality, and pupil wellbeing, Garret Fay has led a forward-thinking strategy across Insignis Academy Trust (IAT) schools, using physical activity to increase engagement, strengthen belonging, and improve outcomes for young people. He champions the belief that physical activity is not an add on, but essential for effective learning and improving mental health. 

Garret is an active advocate for wellbeing nationally through his work with the Well Schools Movement and his leadership roles as Chair of the Youth Sport Trust MAT Advisory Board and as a Youth Sport Trust Headteacher Ambassador. He is committed to sharing best practice, influencing the national educational landscape and regularly collaborates with other MATs and schools to build a stronger educational sector. 

Under Garret’s leadership, IAT has gained national recognition, including winning the Youth Sport Trust Outstanding MAT Practice Award 2025 for placing wellbeing at the heart of its work. His Trust-wide approach guarantees every pupil, from primary through to secondary education, receives at least two hours of high-quality PE, play, and sport each week.  

By expanding inclusive co-curricular opportunities and improving sports facilities, he has helped make school a more positive and welcoming environment. Programmes such as the Insignis School Games ensure participation is open to all pupils, not just the most able. Increased participation in these opportunities has supported improved attendance and attainment across the Trust. 

Garret has also strengthened partnerships with organisations including LEAP Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes Active Partnership, and Active in the Community. These partnerships ensure that staff, grassroots clubs and the community have access to sporting spaces beyond the school day. 

The impact of Garret’s work is demonstrated through measurable improvements. Trust attendance rose to 93.6%, with significant gains for disadvantaged pupils and those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). All IAT schools now meet or exceed national attendance averages, compared to just two out of six the previous year, with The Mandeville School achieving national benchmarks for the first time in over 20 years. 

Garret’s leadership and unwavering belief in the power of sport to transform lives has resulted in IAT becoming a beacon for excellence in physical education and wellbeing.