Merger goes ahead for York and Hull Multi Academy Trusts

Colleagues from two multi academy trusts (MATs) in the region celebrate today (1 September 2021) as they formally join together to create the Hope Sentamu Learning Trust.

The merger of Hope Learning Trust York and Sentamu Academy Learning Trust, previously based in Hull, sees 15 church and community schools come together under one umbrella.

The two Church of England Trusts began merger discussions almost two years ago given their common purpose in terms of ethos, their underlying principles of enhanced levels of continuous school improvement and ensuring the flourishing of students within their communities. Following many months of partnership working, the Trusts received approval for the merger from the Regional School Commissioners (RSC) in November last year.

The newly formed Hope Sentamu Learning Trust includes six secondary, seven primary and two alternative provision academies across York, Hull, Selby and Scarborough.

Tony Myers, Chair of Hope Sentamu Learning Trust said: “I am thrilled to see the merger come to fruition after months of hard work from numerous colleagues across the Trust. Our trustees and senior leaders have a clear commitment to ensure the flourishing of students within our communities and providing opportunities for staff to develop their own career pathways, alongside the provision of high-quality education and resources. This merger provides real strengths and opportunities for all.

“The key benefits of this merged Trust through increased size and scaling will lead to enhanced levels of continuous school improvement; cross-fertilisation of best practice and improved opportunities for mutual support; improved value for money within the resources available; enhanced back-office functions; and the ability to grow further.”

Helen Winn, Chief Executive Officer of the new Trust has been keen to involve staff, pupils and the schools’ communities throughout the merger process. Staff and pupils from all 15 schools were recently involved in a consultation to decide upon the Trust’s values, which resulted in three core pillars: Respect, Teamwork and Kindness.

The Trust’s vision, ‘Life in all its fullness – a place to thrive’ is something very close to Helen’s heart.

She says “This exciting merger means we can continue to develop, collaboratively, as one Trust. The Trust Board and I are committed to ensuring that all of our pupils and our colleagues are given opportunities so that they can thrive and live life to the full.

“I would like to say a personal thank you to all those who have worked so hard to make the merger happen.  We are looking forward to the opportunities ahead and we can’t wait to see our vision emerge.”

1 September 2021