Will Smith OBE is the founding CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust (GLT), where he leads one of the UK’s most successful multi-academy trusts. Will has overseen its strategic expansion from a single school to a thriving community of primary, secondary, and special schools across the South of England. His leadership is defined by a rigorous commitment to social justice and the belief that a child’s background should never determine their future. Under his guidance, the trust has become a national benchmark for school improvement, known for its evidence-based approach to pedagogy and its ability to turn around underperforming schools.

Before stepping into the role of CEO, Will established himself as a prominent figure in national system leadership. He served for five years as the headteacher of Greenshaw High School, leading the institution to an Outstanding Ofsted rating and a reputation for academic excellence. This success led to his tenure as the Leader of the PiXL network, where he supported approximately half of the secondary schools in England and Wales in raising standards at GCSE and A-level. His work at PiXL solidified his reputation as a collaborator who can bridge the gap between high-level policy and practical, classroom-level success.

In recognition of his extensive contributions to the UK education sector, Will was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours. A science teacher by training, he remains deeply connected to the craft of teaching and continues to be a vocal advocate for collaborative leadership. Whether through his work on the GLT executive committees or his appearances at national conferences, Will remains dedicated to building a sustainable, community-focused educational system that empowers both teachers and students to excel.