Academisation

Welcome to our consultation for the proposed academy conversion of St John with St Mark CofE Primary School. On this page you will ultimately find all the information you need to make an informed decision on the proposed conversion.

The governors and school leaders have taken the decision to consider applying for academy status and joining The Sycamore Church of England Trust. This decision has been made following many months of extensive research and consideration of a range of multi academy trusts.  Governors and leaders have met with representatives of Sycamore Trust and have talked to other schools who are already part of the Trust.  

In considering applying for academy status, school leaders and governors have looked at the range of academy trust options available to us as a church school, and believe that Sycamore Trust would be the best choice for our school. We strongly believe this will bring enormous benefits for our pupils and our staff.   The Diocese has already agreed that we can, in principle, join The Sycamore Trust and we will continue to carry out the due diligence required.

Please click here  for a letter sent to parents/carers on 30th June 2026.

Benefits of Academy Status

Joining a multi-academy trust (MAT) can offer several benefits for a local authority (LA) school. Here are some of the advantages:

• Autonomy: While still being part of a larger network, joining a MAT can grant schools more autonomy than they might have had under the local authority. This autonomy can extend to areas such as curriculum development, staffing, budget management, and decision-making processes.
• Collaboration and Support: MATs often provide a support network and opportunities for collaboration among member schools. Schools within the trust can share resources, expertise, and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This collaborative environment can lead to better outcomes for students and staff alike.
• Access to Resources: MATs may have access to additional resources, both financial and non-financial, which can benefit member schools. This could include centralised services such as HR, finance, IT support, and professional development opportunities for staff.
• Flexibility and Innovation: MATs may have more flexibility to innovate and try new approaches to teaching and learning. This can be particularly beneficial for schools looking to implement innovative educational practices or address specific challenges in their community.
• Improved Financial Stability: Joining a MAT can provide greater financial stability for schools, as they may benefit from pooled resources, economies of scale, and more efficient budget management practices. This can help schools navigate financial challenges and ensure that resources are used effectively to support teaching and learning.
• Opportunities for Growth and Development: MATs can offer opportunities for career progression and professional development for staff. This might include access to training programs, leadership development initiatives, and pathways for career advancement within the trust.
• Shared Ethos and Values: MATs often have a shared ethos or vision that aligns with the values of member schools. This can create a sense of belonging and shared purpose among staff, students, and parents, fostering a strong sense of community within the trust.

Overall, it is felt that joining a multi-academy trust can provide LA schools with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive and improve outcomes for their children. 

Information about The Sycamore Church of England Trust

The Sycamore Church of England Trust aims to be 'the trust of choice' for both faith based and community schools who share in the Trust's vision and values.  At the centre of the Trust's mission and purpose is the belief that every child has a right to educational excellence through the provision of high-quality schooling.  The Trust maintains a clear focus on collaboration, raising standards, encouraging innovation, and strengthening the Trust's distinctive ethos to ensure a positive impact on the young people and in the diverse communities that the Trust serves.

Sycamore Trust has a strong and unique identity where the values of inclusion, compassion, aspiration, resilience and excellence lie at the heart of everything they do.   

Consultation

We value your continued support and partnership.  If you would like to discuss this important development for our school, then you are more than welcome to make an appointment to meet with Mr Ollis, Headteacher, before the end of summer term (please contact the School Office).  Mr Ollis and Mr Westwell (Chair of the Governing Body) will arrange an information meeting for parents/carers in the Autumn school and further details will be published once a date/time has been confirmed.