News / Education
Merger to create one of Bristol’s largest multi-academy trusts
More than 11,000 students across 21 schools will soon be part of one of the largest multi-academy trusts in the Bristol area.
A merger between Cathedral Schools Trust (CST) and Trust in Learning (TiLA) has now been approved by the Department for Education.
Some 1,700 teaching and support staff will be part of the newly combined trust in one all-through school, four secondary schools and 16 primary schools.
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The coming together is expected to be completed in the coming months subject to final agreements by both existing trust boards.
Ashton Gate Primary School is one of the schools that will be affected by the likely merger – photo: photo Alice Galliott
Neil Blundell, CEO of CST whose current schools include Cathedral primary and secondary schools in the city centre, Ashton Gate Primary and Trinity Academy in Lockleaze, said he is “delighted that the merger has been approved”.
Blundell added: “By bringing our communities together, we can expand and deepen opportunities for children and staff across the region and ensure our schools continue to thrive.”
Two schools within CST are currently within their own merger discussions which could lead to the closure of Hotwells Primary School, and Cathedral Primary School taking on their site on Albermarle Row.
A consultation on the proposals closes on September 19, with many parents and carers from both schools unhappy at the plans, which if approved by trustees would also need to be rubber-stamped by the Department for Education.
TiLA schools include the Bridge Learning Campus in Hartcliffe, Parson Street Primary School in Bedminster and Filton Avenue Primary School.
TiLA chief exec Sue Elliott said: “This is an exciting step towards building a strong, collaborative trust.
“Our shared values and commitment to excellence will ensure that every child benefits from the highest quality education.”
Main photo: Trinity Academy
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