Education

Cambridgeshire primary schools join education trust in ‘exciting new chapter’

By Lorna Hughes

Copyright cambridge-news

Cambridgeshire primary schools join education trust in 'exciting new chapter'

Two Cambridgeshire primary schools have hailed the start of an “exciting new chapter” by joining an education trust.

Crosshall Infant School and Crosshall Junior School in St Neots are both now part of the Meridian Trust.

It currently operates more than 30 primary, secondary and special schools across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, supporting more than 18,000 pupils.

The Trust says the schools will “benefit from strengthened leadership links, access to a wide range of teaching and learning expertise, and additional training” along with development opportunities for staff.

Lesley Birch, deputy CEO of Meridian Trust, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Crosshall Infant and Junior Schools to Meridian Trust. These schools are at the heart of their community and have a strong history of helping children succeed both in and out of the classroom.

“With the commitment of the staff, governors, and families, we want to build on the great work already happening and make sure every pupil has every chance to thrive.”

Dan Ainscow, co-headteacher of Crosshall Junior School, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for our school. Joining Meridian Trust means we’re part of a community that values people and shares our drive for excellence. Our focus remains firmly on providing the highest quality education and care for our pupils, enabling them to achieve their dreams and become confident, responsible individuals.”

Liam Murphy, co-headteacher of Crosshall Junior School, said: “We’re already working closely with the Trust to explore new opportunities, strengthen what we do well, and ensure long-term success for our whole school community.

“We’re proud to join a trusted family of schools dedicated to achievement for all and extending learning beyond the classroom.”

Rebecca Sawford, headteacher of Crosshall Infant School, said: “Joining Meridian Trust feels like a natural fit. We have a shared belief in putting pupils at the heart of everything we do, working collaboratively, and always looking for ways to improve our practice.

“At Crosshall Infant, those values guide how we support learning and build close relationships with families right from those early years at school.”

The schools became part of the Trust from the start of the new academic year.