Strategic Plan

Vision and Mission The Association of Trustees of Catholic Schools is a locus for unity and inspiration, rooted in Gospel values, affirming and enabling Catholic School Trusts/ Trustees in the provision of quality education.

Context  The ATCS Strategic Plan was reviewed at the AGM of ATCS on the 13 th of October Members who were present at the AGM were invited to provide their views on the future strategic issues for the Association in order to inform the strategic direction for  The views of the members have been reviewed and this draft Strategic Plan is set in the context of the vision and mission of ATCS, the views elicited from ATCS members at the AGM and from further discussion at ATCS Board level.

Overview of Goals  GOAL 1: Position ATCS as a recognised voice for Trusts, Trustees and Patrons of Catholic schools  GOAL 2: Provide advisory and appropriate support to ATCS members  GOAL 3: Develop the role of ATCS in the support and development of ethos  GOAL 4: Continue to explore the funding of the trusteeship function of voluntary secondary schools.  GOAL 5: Optimise practices and procedures in relation to communicating with members and other stakeholders.

Goal 1 GOAL 1: Position ATCS as a recognised voice for Trusts, Trustees and Patrons of Catholic schools Objectives  Membership by all eligible bodies  Active participation and small group consultation  ATCS as a credible entity - ATCS spokesperson  Communication and collaboration

Goal 2 GOAL 2: Provide advisory and appropriate support to ATCS members Objectives  Ownership / lease issues  Strategy on Community School issues  Clarify responsibilities and relationships between trustees and BoM on property issues  Clarify role of ETB in devolved DES-funded building projects  Inservice for members  Respond to need for expert opinion – prepare position papers

Goal 3 GOAL 3 Develop the role of ATCS in the support and development of ethos Objectives  Ensuring a vibrant strong Catholic sector  Promote and build on Catholic Schools Week  Engage with CSP

Goal 4  GOAL 4: Continue to explore the funding of the trusteeship function of voluntary secondary schools. Objectives  Explore and achieve long-term funding for trusteeship/patronage of voluntary secondary schools  Determine the cost of trustee functions  Examine international models  Develop a strategy for influencing decision- makers

Goal 5 GOAL 5:Optimise practices and procedures in relation to communicating with members and other stakeholders Objectives  Establish regular two-way systems of communication  Provide information updates to members  Develop an ongoing ‘fit-for-purpose’ website