Windsor Academy Trust welcomes three new academies to its family of schools

1st January 2024

Windsor Academy Trust (WAT) today welcomes three new secondary academies to the WAT family of schools as the transfer of Staffordshire-based Clayton Hall Academy, Newcastle Academy and Sir Thomas Boughey Academy from United Endeavour Trust (UET) completes (1st January 2024). The addition of the three new schools creates a new learning community for WAT in north Staffordshire and brings the WAT family to 15 academies, comprising seven primary and eight secondary schools across the West Midlands region.

The decision to transfer Clayton Hall Academy, Newcastle Academy and Sir Thomas Boughey Academy to WAT came after an extensive due diligence process, with the UET Trust Board unanimously agreeing that joining with WAT would be beneficial for the future of its three schools.

The similarities in educational vision and values between UET and WAT were crucial in the decision-making process. WAT’s proven track record of school improvement and financial stability, along with an experienced executive team and Board of Trustees, were also compelling factors in the decision.

The transition to WAT will bring several benefits for staff, including opportunities for increased collaboration, high-quality training, and enhanced support for leaders. It will also provide access to a greater network of central support services.

Importantly, for parents and students, Clayton Hall Academy, Newcastle Academy and Sir Thomas Boughey Academy will maintain their identities, including staff teams, uniform and the general day-to-day running of the schools. The transfer to WAT will also create wider opportunities for students, including in music, sport, and academic events.

Dawn Haywood, CEO of Windsor Academy Trust, said: "We warmly welcome Clayton Hall Academy, Newcastle Academy, Sir Thomas Boughey Academy and central team colleagues to our family and look forward to working closely together to continue to create thriving environments where every child can unlock their academic and personal potential."