Patrick Murden

Patrick Murden has worked in Catholic education for over twenty-five years. He joined The Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust (DoWAT) in 2021 with the ambition to support the emergence of the Trust’s family of schools as a CMAT of Catholic excellence. One that might support the future of Catholic education in England. Since 2021, DoWAT schools have consistently performed well in national CMAT progress measures and have a strong and improving Ofsted and s.48 profile across its schools.

He believes that CMATs are the best structure available to the sector in order to secure the 175-year legacy of Catholic Education in England. DoWAT's vision of a CMAT is one that aims to support Heads and governors to facilitate the flourishing of Mission in each school, providing support and challenge to leaders whilst protecting and enhancing the unique charism and context of the communities over time. In turn, DoWAT students learn within Christ-centred, child-centred schools and can experience the best of an excellent, 21st-century education whilst flourishing within a formative environment that upholds 2000-year-old Catholic values. 

Previously, Pat was the Executive Principal at St Patrick’s National Teaching School and Catholic Collaborative in Greater Manchester. During this time, he oversaw sustained excellence, continued school improvement and supported system leadership. He represented the secondary sector on Metro Mayor Andy Burnham’s Greater Manchester Reform Board. 

Pat believes in collaboration, community and a commitment to Catholic Excellence and continuous improvement, working across and beyond the Catholic sector to connect learning.