Opening Pathways, Growing Impact
By Carley Holliman
This article is part of series of guest posts written by organisations and colleagues partnering with the Centre in the development and delivery of our new Foundation Degree. This piece is written by Carley Holliman, Deputy Chief Executive of the Eden Academy Trust.
At The Eden Academy Trust, we are privileged to work with some truly remarkable children and young people. Every day, our staff show extraordinary commitment, creativity, and compassion in supporting learners with complex needs to thrive. Yet, like many organisations across the children’s workforce, we also recognise a persistent challenge: too many talented, motivated individuals find their progression limited not by their potential, but by the qualifications they have or have not been able to access. That is why we are so proud to be taking part in the new Foundation Degree programme developed in partnership with The Centre for the Children’s Workforce. For us, this decision is about values, opportunity, and impact now and for the future.
Recognising talent where it already exists
Across our schools, we see colleagues who are experts in practice. They understand behaviour, communication, trauma and learning in ways that cannot be taught solely from textbooks. Many have built this expertise over years of hands-on experience, often entering the sector through non-traditional routes. They are skilled, passionate, and deeply committed to improving outcomes for children and young people. However, we also know that without formal academic qualifications, doors can remain closed. Aspirations to leadership, specialist roles or further professional influence can feel out of reach, despite all the capability being there. This is not just an individual issue; it is a system issue. When progression pathways are narrow, we risk losing talent, stalling development, and limiting the collective impact we can have for children. This Foundation Degree speaks directly to that need. It creates a meaningful bridge between experience and qualification, recognising the value of practice while opening new possibilities for progression.
Why this matters for children and staff
For our staff, this programme represents more than a qualification. It is an affirmation that their work matters, that their expertise is valued, and that Eden believes in their potential to grow. We are genuinely thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity not only to colleagues within our Trust, but also to the wider local area in and around Hillingdon. Investing in people in this way has a direct and lasting impact on children. When staff feel empowered, supported and challenged to develop, the quality of relationships, learning and care improves. Stability increases. Confidence grows. And children benefit from being surrounded by adults who are continually learning and evolving alongside them. From an organisational perspective, it also allows us to nurture future leaders who are grounded in Eden’s values and deeply connected to our communities. These are the people who understand our young people best and who can help shape inclusive, compassionate systems that truly meet their needs.
Breaking ceilings and widening access
One of the aspects of this programme that excites me most is its potential to help people “break ceilings” that may have felt fixed for too long. We know there are individuals in our workforce and across the sector who could have an even greater influence on policy, practice and leadership if given the right opportunity. By supporting staff to gain a recognised qualification while remaining in employment, this programme removes many of the barriers that have traditionally excluded people from higher education. It says clearly: your background does not define your future, and your contribution to children’s lives is worthy of investment.
Showcasing what is possible at Eden
From an Eden point of view, this is also an opportunity to showcase the profound impact that comes from working with and alongside our very special young people. The learning gained through this programme will not happen in isolation; it will be shaped every day by the complexity, joy and challenge of our schools. We hope this partnership will help secure and support people who want to make a greater difference, stay in the sector, and grow their careers without stepping away from the children who inspire them to do this work in the first place. Taking part in this Foundation Degree programme is a statement of belief: in our staff, in our communities, and in a children’s workforce where opportunity is broader, fairer and more reflective of the talent that already exists. I am excited about what lies ahead and proud of the role Eden is playing in helping make it possible.
To find out more about the Foundation Degree and to express interest in participating or partnering, visit the Foundation Degree page.
