Spark Education Trust has launched, merging two trusts to oversee 15 schools in Teesside, benefiting 8,000 students and 1,200 staff.
Teesside: Spark Education Trust just launched. It formed from a merger of Vision Academy Learning Trust and The 1590 Trust. This happened in September, creating a new entity called Vision 1590.
Now, Spark Education Trust will manage 15 schools in the Teesside area. This includes four secondary schools and 11 primary schools. Chief Executive Louise Spellman leads the new trust.
The secondary schools are Conyers School, Laurence Jackson School, Huntcliff School, and Egglescliffe School and Sixth Form. Each school will keep its own branding and uniforms.
With Spark, around 8,000 children and 1,200 staff will benefit. This makes it larger than average for a school trust. All schools are rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Spark will operate in three local authority areas. It will run one school in Middlesbrough, 11 in Stockton, and three in Redcar and Cleveland.
The new board has five trustees from each former trust. They also added a new trustee who specializes in secondary education.
Louise Spellman shared that merging the trusts felt natural. They share a vision and values, plus the schools are in close proximity.
She explained that they wanted a unique name. “Spark” captures their goal of igniting potential in students and staff. It also honors the invention of the safety match in Stockton.
Spellman emphasized their aim for outstanding results and the right career paths for students. They plan to offer development opportunities for staff, including a special initiative called ‘Bright Sparks’.
John Downs, the director of education, noted that the curriculum should prepare students for life beyond exams. It’s about equipping them for future challenges.
Maria Carlton, the primary education director, mentioned that Spark focuses on creating memorable experiences for students. They want kids to enjoy school and look back fondly on their time there.
She believes that experiences like school trips and learning instruments are more impactful than textbook lessons. These moments will foster personal growth.
Finally, Danny Yates, another education director, stated that they aim to strengthen community ties and partner with businesses. They want to show everyone how to positively impact society.
