As we mark Trustees' Week this week, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our Trustees and Members, who give up their time voluntarily to help shape the direction of Greensand Multi Academy Trust and ensure our schools continue to provide the very best opportunities for children and young people.
We caught up with Oli Wilson, one of our newest Trustees, who brings a particularly special perspective to the role. Having attended both St John's Primary School and Reigate School, and now with his own children attending St John’s, his connection to Greensand spans generations.
Joining the Trust Board back in March 2026 offered an opportunity for Oli to give something back.
"These schools have helped shape generations of young people in our community, myself included, and the opportunity to play even a small part in ensuring they continue to do so is both a privilege and something I’m really looking forward to.”
After leaving school, he spent almost 13 years in the British Army before building a successful career in the technology sector, including the role of Operations Director at Wayve. Whilst education, the military and technology may seem very different worlds, he has found many common threads between them, particularly around leadership, organisational culture, strategic thinking and managing complex challenges.
Those experiences now help inform his contributions as a Trustee, bringing a fresh perspective to discussions about the future of the Trust. However, he is quick to point out that governance is as much about listening and learning as it is about expertise.
Since joining the Board, he has been surprised by and has gained a deeper understanding of the scale and complexity involved in running a Multi Academy Trust.
“It's been fascinating to understand how the schools retain their own identities whilst benefiting from being part of something bigger.
I've also been really impressed by the people I've met and their commitment to doing the right thing for the children, even when resources are stretched and the challenges are considerable.”
Reflecting on his own time at Reigate School, he recalls fond memories of supportive teachers, opportunities to develop confidence through drama and performing arts, and a school environment where he felt able to be himself. Looking back, he believes education is about far more than academic achievement alone.
Oli is particularly passionate about helping to foster a strong sense of belonging across the Trust, believing that people achieve their best when they feel connected to a shared purpose.
Whilst Trustees provide strategic oversight at Trust level, strong governance also relies on dedicated Governors supporting individual schools. Governors play a crucial role in helping school leaders improve outcomes for pupils whilst remaining connected to their local communities.
We are always keen to hear from people interested in becoming a school Governor. Individuals from all backgrounds can bring valuable skills, experience and insight, and volunteering in governance is a rewarding way to make a meaningful difference to young people's lives.
As Oli said when asked what piece of advice he would give to his younger self:
“Don’t be afraid to take opportunities, particularly the ones that push you outside your comfort zone.”
Our Trustee's story demonstrates the lasting impact schools can have, not only on pupils today but also on those who return years later to support future generations. It is a powerful example of giving back to the communities that helped shape us and of Greensand's commitment to Stepping into Greatness for every child and member of staff.
