Proposal that Widden Primary School joins the Greenshaw Learning Trust

Governors and school leaders have been carefully considering the future of Widden Primary School in Gloucester for some time. They had concluded that it would be in the best interests of the pupils, parents, staff, and wider community for it to take advantage of the closer collaboration and stronger support it would get by being part of a multi-academy trust. 

The DfE Regional Director has been in discussion with senior leaders from Greenshaw Learning Trust (GLT) and the leadership of Widden Primary School and believe that GLT can provide the support that the school needs. 

Sanjai Desai, Chair of Governing Body at Widden Primary School, said: “The Greenshaw Learning Trust understands the community that we serve and holds similar values to Widden Primary School. Working with other primary schools within GLT will allow us to further develop skills and experience and ensure our staff and pupils are fully equipped to fulfil their academic and personal potential” 

Will Smith, CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, said: “We are delighted that Widden Primary School would like to join our family of schools. As part of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, Widden will benefit from and contribute to a close collaboration of like-minded schools and high-quality support services, while retaining its character and place in the local community. We look forward to working with Widden and helping to improve the life chances of the young people in the school.”

Subject to the necessary agreements being reached between the school, the Greenshaw Learning Trust, the Department for Education, and Gloucestershire County Council, it is expected that Widden Primary School should join the Greenshaw Learning Trust on 1 September 2023.

The Greenshaw Learning Trust is well-established locally, being responsible for Gloucester Academy, Henley Bank High School and Holmleigh Park High School in Gloucester, Five Acres High School in the Forest of Dean, and Yate Academy, Tyndale Primary School and Woodlands Primary School in South Gloucestershire.

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