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CAPH’s Cornwall Operational Group for Schools (COGS) – Summer Term Event 2026

Thurs 30th April 2026 - Wadebridge

Following on from the success of Collaborative Cornwall, this linked event brings together operational leaders from across the county to focus on the essential areas that support the day-to-day functioning and long-term resilience of schools. The event aims to foster stronger collaboration between schools, MATs, and the Local Authority by sharing good practice, tackling shared challenges, and identifying opportunities to work more efficiently and strategically. Operational teams are a critical part of the education system. This conference provides a much-needed space for those leading on HR, Finance, Estates, Catering and IT to connect, learn, and plan together.

Aims of the Conference:

• Strengthen relationships across operational teams in Cornwall
• Promote shared services and resource optimisation
• Align operational strategies with wider school improvement goals
• Encourage joint problem-solving and innovation

Key Focus Areas:

• · HR & People Strategy
  • Recruitment and retention challenges and solutions
  • Workforce wellbeing and professional development
  • Safer recruitment practices and policy updates

• Finance & Budgeting
  • Financial planning in a challenging climate
  • Opportunities for collaborative procurement
  • Ensuring compliance with national funding regulations

• Estates & Capital Projects
  • Managing school estates effectively and safely
  • Condition data and prioritisation of maintenance
  • Sustainability, energy efficiency, and future planning

• Catering & Nutrition
  • Meeting the needs of pupils through nutritious, affordable meals
  • Addressing cost pressures and supply issues
  • Local sourcing and environmentally friendly practices

• IT & Digital Infrastructure
  • Cybersecurity and data protection essentials
  • Leveraging digital systems to support learning and operations
  • Shared platforms and digital procurement models

Conference Format:

• Opening keynote: “Strategic Operations in Education – Moving Beyond the Basics”
• Themed breakout sessions led by experienced practitioners
• Roundtable discussions to identify common goals
• Panel Q&A with MAT and LA operational leaders
• Networking lunch to build cross-organisation connections

This event will help establish an ongoing COGS Network and will contribute to the wider work of system-wide improvement by ensuring our support systems are as strong, efficient, and connected as our educational aims