The first day of the conference saw delegates welcomed with a lively musical set by Shireland CBSO Academy's Music Aptitude Ensemble and members of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.
It was officially opened by CST Chair Sir Hamid Patel CBE, who spoke about the emerging threats to young people, and how schools can help guard against them.
In her keynote address, CST Chief Executive Leora Cruddas CBE encouraged delegates and the trusts they lead to explore the "trust dividend", and deepen their work with community partners.
Secretary of State for Education Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson spoke ahead of the publication of the Schools White Paper, saying it would lay the path for national renewal for schools.
Conference also heard from Baroness Sue Campbell on her journey from PE teacher to Chairman of UK Sport and her take on a leadership mindset, and founding president of the American Institute for Boys and Men on why white, working-class boys are not achieving their potential, and what can be done about it.
The day's two workshops sessions covered topics including financial benchmarking, inclusion, AI lesson planning, and governance.
The conference continues on Friday 17 October.
