The Regional Director’s advisory boards in our regions have approved our applications for the creation of a new merged trust. This means Pendle Vale College, South Craven Academy Trust and the Pennine Trust can now work together with our stakeholders and partners to realise our vision.
We have set out a timeline for the remaining work and anticipate South Craven and the Pennine Trust merging on 1st April 2025. The target date for Pendle Vale to join is 1st July. The longer timescale for Pendle Vale is because the school site was redeveloped under the Private Finance Initiative (PFI) and transfer of that contract takes more time.
In the summer, a working group formed from staff and governors/trustees in each organisation considered important features of the new trust, including vision, mission and values and a suitable name. The mission, vision and values are summarised overleaf. In selecting a name, we were keen to reflect the values of ambition and collaboration whilst avoiding any geographical reference, which could restrict future growth.
The name selected is Apex Collaborative Trust. Though a key driver for forming this trust is the potential for all schools to work collaboratively, individual school identity and heritage is fundamental to our vision. The strong identities of all the schools will be treasured and fostered within Apex.
An initial piece of collaborative work bringing together a small group of pupils from all 6 schools that will be in the new trust, is to work with an external provider to develop ideas and designs for a new logo. This will take place this half term.
Over the next few months there will be periodic updates about our progress with the merger in this section of the website. Important news and dates will also be shared directly in writing with key stakeholders, including parents and carers.
Mission, vision and values of Apex Collaborative Trust:
Mission: Make a difference in our communities by placing learning at the heart of all we do.
Vision: To be a collaborative and innovative Trust, which has the highest aspirations and provides the best opportunities for all of our students and staff to develop, thrive and succeed.
Values:
Ambition - we strive to always push the limits of possibility with staff and students. We encourage aspiration and innovation and have the courage to take risks to inspire positive change. We resist complacency, take all opportunities, see failure as a chance to learn and persevere when the going gets tough.
Collaboration - we know we are stronger together and always seek opportunities to collaborate to improve provision for our students. We work alongside all stakeholders in our communities to develop effective partnerships and enhance what we do.
Trust - we value everyone equally and show this by acting with respect and integrity and ensuring we are always inclusive. We have high standards in all areas and foster a culture of personal growth where everyone takes responsibility for their actions and is encouraged to engage in self-reflection. We do the right things in the right way for our stakeholders.
These values align closely with existing values for the Pennine Trust, South Craven and Pendle Vale, and will afford schools the opportunity for individual interpretation of exact wording, whilst following the behaviours defined in the exemplification of each value.