Extol Trust is an ambitious and collaborative Trust based in the North East of England. The Trust’s conception was driven by a passion and a moral belief that all pupils deserve to attend a 'stand out school', where they flourish personally, academically and socially.

We place children at the centre of all we do, aiming to create a climate where excellent flourishes because of outstanding leadership, engaging teaching and high-quality learning. We are a Trust which works hard to be an employer of choice; We know we can't have great schools without great staff and we work very hard to recruit, retain and develop our people to be the best they can be. We invest significantly in professional infrastructure, ensuring that our staff have access to the best training and development opportunities.

This commitment to professional growth not only helps us attract top talent but also plays a crucial role in retaining it. By fostering an environment that is inclusive and encourages continuous learning, development, and advancement, we create a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated. This, in turn, leads to higher job satisfaction, improved performance, and long-term loyalty to the Trust. As a result, we can build a strong, skilled team that contributes to the Trust’s ongoing success.

We place Extol Trust as both a system and civic leader, working with other organisations to advance education for the wider common good. Through the development of purposeful partnerships and true collaboration, we aim to impact not only on our school communities but the wider education landscape. We believe that strong collaborative Trusts should be at the front and centre of shaping education reform.

OUR VALUES

Our aims are reflected in our continual commitment to the levelling up agenda within education and the North East community that we serve. As a collective, we are determined that all pupils, regardless of background or where they go to school, have equal access to high quality education which equips them with the knowledge, skills and understanding to realise their ambitions and attain their potential.

Inspiration

Extol is a Trust that inspires all its schools to be that “stand out school”. We constantly seek inspiration from local national and international initiatives/research. We passionately believe that by investing in our workforce we develop an inspiring, committed and professional team within each school.

Excellence

Extol has a focus on excellence in all that we do. We strive to achieve the very best for our schools and their communities we know that access to an excellent education opens opportunities for individuals and the community in which they live.

Partnership

Extol knows there is power within a partnership of schools. We believe that a true, inclusive partnership with people driven by the same ‘why’ allows our family of schools to learn with and from each other.

• We support and develop “stand out schools” who learn with and from each other
• We ensure that every penny expended is used solely for the purpose of improving education outcomes
• We invest in purposeful, relevant professional development for all staff to secure a highly professional and committed team who ensure all pupils access the very best education
• ​​​​​​​We implement robust and purposeful management systems which inform the strategic development and improvement of the Trust
• ​​​​​​​We have fit for purpose Governance that is effective in supporting the work of our family of schools and the Trust
• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​We contribute to the wider led school system

Strategic Aims.pdf [2.16mb]

The staffing team at Extol Trust comprises a group of highly skilled and experienced professionals; many are widely recognised as some of the best in their field of expertise in the region. Led by the Trust central team whose unwavering dedication to supporting our schools ensures that Trust staff can fully implement the Trust’s vision and deliver excellent education outcomes. As the new CEO, you will work closely with this remarkable team, gaining invaluable insight, support, and a true sense of collaboration.

Read more about our current Trust central team.

Trust Organisational Structure

Clavering Primary School

Clavering Primary School is a welcoming and inclusive community where everyone is valued as part of "The Clavering Family." The school motto, "Dream, Believe, Achieve Together," reflects their commitment to ensuring every child reaches their full potential. The school works in close partnership with parents, carers, and the local community, placing children at the heart of everything they do. The dedicated staff and governors are passionate about providing the best possible learning experiences, ensuring that each child feels safe, happy, and supported to achieve their dreams.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Eldon Grove Academy

Eldon Grove Academy is committed to unlocking the potential of every child, fostering a safe, supportive environment where all pupils are encouraged to aim high and achieve their best. The school motto, "Potential is our Passion," guides the school in providing memorable learning experiences, a stimulating curriculum, and opportunities for children to develop their skills and talents. With a strong sense of community, Eldon Grove Academy prides itself on its inclusive ethos, where every individual is valued equally. The passionate staff and governors work together to inspire pupils, ensuring high academic standards and the well-being of every child.

Read more about us on our academy website.

New Silksworth Infant and New Silksworth Junior Academies

New Silksworth Infant and Junior Academies, are dedicated to providing a caring and stimulating environment where every child is encouraged to aspire, believe, and achieve. The schools strive to create a positive atmosphere where children feel secure, valued, and proud to be part of the school community. With high expectations and a focus on academic excellence, the curriculum offer, encourages exploration and personal growth. Staff and governors work collaboratively with families to ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive both academically and socially.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Thorntree Academy

Thorntree Academy is a school where learning, thriving, and celebrating achievements go hand in hand. With a commitment to continuous improvement, the school work closely with parents, carers, and the local community to inspire children to become the best version of themselves. The school motto, "Learn, Thrive, Celebrate," reflects the school’s dedication to helping pupils develop resilience, independence, and strong thinking skills. With an inclusive and nurturing environment, the school ensure that every child is encouraged to reach their full potential, as emphasised by the #FutureYou programme.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Roseberry School

Roseberry Primary School is committed to providing an environment where every child is given the opportunity to achieve their best, regardless of their background. With a focus on high academic standards and personal growth. The school ensures that each child is nurtured to become a responsible, ambitious, and well-rounded individual. The school culture is every child is respected and encouraged to strive for success. The school work closely with parents and the community to ensure that all children feel valued and supported in their educational journey.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Rossmere Academy

Rossmere Academy is driven by a mission to enrich the educational experience of every child. Through memorable experiences, an exciting curriculum, and a focus on developing skills and talents, the school ensures that each child can reach their full potential. The school values of Be Proud, Be Community, Be Passionate, Be Committed, Be Rossmere guide everything they do. The school are dedicated to creating a safe and stimulating environment that promotes high academic standards and personal growth. The inclusive ethos ensures that all children are supported, valued, and prepared for a successful future in a changing world.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Springwell School

Springwell Special School provides a happy, caring, and safe environment where every child is valued and celebrated. The school are committed to providing an exceptional education for pupils with a wide range of special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The vision is to be a Centre of Excellence for primary SEND education, offering support and guidance to schools, families, and the wider community. With a creative and personalised curriculum, the school ensures that every child is given the opportunity to grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. The school in close partnership with parents and other agencies to support the development of all learners.

Read more about us on our academy website.

Locations of the Academies in Extol Trust

Our Trust Community

At Extol Trust, we believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from collaboration and this is an area where we thrive and excel in. We want to develop partnerships where each partner school can celebrate and recognise each other’s strengths and learn with and from each other: this is reflected in our name Extol which is derived from the word extollere, meaning to lift up, to praise. Extol fully supports the independence and distinguishing characteristics of each of the schools.

Extol has a commitment to supporting the schools within the Extol family for the benefit of the communities served by the school. These are varied, with our Trust serving some of the most affluent yet also the most sociologically deprived areas of the Tees Valley region, with our pupil demographics ranging from 25% to 80% FSM.

We celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of our schools, fostering an inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported through our specialist provision and additional school provisions within of our Trust family. Our schools work closely with parents and carers, viewing them as active partners in their children's education. Each school within the Trust is deeply embedded in its local community, contributing to and benefiting from the rich cultural and social fabric of the area. This local engagement ensures that our schools are responsive to the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve. Our CEO is wholeheartedly leading in championing these cross-community relationships.

Wider Partnerships

We engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including local authorities, SCITT partners, and other educational institutions, to enhance the educational experiences of our pupils. Our CEO sits on education partnership board in the local area, and collaborates closely with the Schools North East network to ensure every young voice from the different demographics is represented and heard. Our CFO undertakes SRMA work to support other education establishments, and the Trust has been recognised as a credible partner by the DFE for external improvement projects.

Our Trust is open to innovative ideas and new collaborations, constantly seeking to expand our network of partners. These strategic partnerships enable us to bring new schools into the Trust, share best practices, and drive continuous improvement across all our schools. Our new CEO will be key to maintaining these partnerships.

At Extol, we have a culture of rigorous governance, which ensures that internal scrutiny, gap analysis, and evidence-based practices drive continuous improvement across the Trust. Our CEO, Central Team and Trustees work in partnership, fostering a supportive and engaged leadership dynamic that strengthens the Trust’s overall effectiveness.

Extol has built an enviable team of experienced practitioners and proven commercial experts that set the strategic direction for the Trust. This blend of business acumen and operational expertise, coupled with a wealth of teaching learning knowledge, ensures commercial best-practice and value for the centrally managed services such as Finance, HR and IT across the Trust, plus consistently high standards of educational policy and provision for our family of schools.

The shared vision and values of Extol and all our schools underpins the governance arrangements of the Trust, with our CEO being a visible and engaged leader.

The relationship between the Trust and Local Governing Bodies is one of partners sharing a common goal, drawing on each other’s strengths to overcome any areas for development and respond robustly to any challenges, to ensure high education standards and continuous improvement. Our Local Governing Bodies are the champions of our values in our individual schools.

Accountability for decisions

The Trust Board delegate authority to four key groups in order to ensure the effective leadership and governance of Extol Trust. The four key groups are:

• Board sub-committees
• Executive Central Team
• Local Governing Bodies
• Individual School Leadership Teams

The relationship between the Trust Board, the Executive Team and the Local Governing Bodies is characterised as a partnership to realise a common vision and a common purpose. In the case of sub committees and the Local Governing Bodies the relationship between the tiers of governance is also based on the principles of:

1. no duplication of governance.
2. governance should be as close as possible to the point of impact of decision-making. The Terms of Reference and the Scheme of Delegation provides a definitive framework for management and governance responsibilities. Effectiveness of both management and governance is supported through clarity over who holds the decision-making responsibility and who supports and advises the decision makers.

Governance organisational Diagram

Our new CEO will be instrumental in balancing our centralised leadership against the continued autonomy of our schools, ensuring that teaching, learning, and curriculum development retain creativity and innovation, with continued bottom-up engagement to ensure inclusive decision making.

OFSTED

• Clavering Primary school – not yet inspected since conversion
• Eldon Grove Academy – Report March 2024
• New Silksworth Academy (Infant) – Report July 2024
• New Silksworth Academy (Junior) – Report September 2024
• Roseberry School - Not yet inspected since conversion
• Rossmere School – Inspected January 2025, awaiting report
• Springwell School - Not yet inspected since conversion
• Thorntree Academy – Report April 2024

School Performance Data

• Clavering Primary School - School Performance Data (previous data prior to joining Extol Trust)
• Eldon Grove – School Performance Data
• New Silksworth Infant Academy – School Performance Data
• New Silksworth Junior Academy – School Performance Data
• Roseberry School - School Performance Data (previous data prior to joining Extol Trust)
• Rossmere School - School Performance Data
• Springwell School - School Performance Data
• Thorntree Academy - School Performance Data

Trust NOR

Budget Position

Extol Trust is in a strong financial position with revenue reserves of £2.2m as of 31st August 2024, individual school reserves are well spread with all schools compliant with the Trust reserves policy. Centrally the Trust has a small revenue reserve which it keeps to a minimum to ensure funding is invested within our family of schools.  Our expenditure is carefully managed by our experienced CFO whom is a chartered public sector accountant and School Resource Management Advisor, with significant investments in teaching and learning, staff development, and school improvement. There have also been substantial investments in capital projects, including the development and maintenance of school facilities, with operational costs being monitored closely to ensure efficiency and value for money.

The Trust has built up healthy reserves, providing a financial cushion to manage unforeseen circumstances and support future growth. These reserves are a testament to the Trust's effective financial planning and risk management strategies. As Chief Accounting Officer, our new CEO will work closely with our CFO to continually retain this position, often having to manage both internal and external factors and conflicting priorities. This ensures we can invest in long-term strategic initiatives and ultimately provide the best possible quality of education to our schools and their communities.

Further reading:

• Schools Financial Benchmarking
• Signed accounts and funding agreements

Trust Key Documents

• Articles of Association
• Trust Scheme of Delegation [pdf.428kb]
• Public Sector Equality Duty Statement.pdf [263kb]
• Single Equality Scheme.pdf [428kb]
• Policies
• Statements of Intent[26kb]

Our Trust strategic plan for 2023-2025 was largely focused upon the following key goals:

1. Expansion and Growth:
   • Increase the Number of Schools: Aim to add six more schools by August 2025, focusing on areas such as Teesside, Hartlepool, and Sunderland, with a target of 3,000 pupils.
   • Develop a Scalable Model: Create scalable systems and structures to support the growth of the Trust, ensuring efficient and effective management of an increased number of schools.

2. Leadership and Succession Planning:
   • Succession Plan for Senior Leadership: Develop a comprehensive succession plan for senior leadership, including the recruitment of a new CEO by April 2025.
   • Strengthen Central Team: Recruit and scale the central team to support the Trust’s expansion and ensure robust leadership and management.

3. School Improvement and Development:
   • School Improvement Strategy: Design and implement a scalable school improvement strategy to enhance the quality of education and achieve 'Good' or 'Outstanding' standards across all schools.
   • Professional Development: Develop a professional development programme and a talent matrix to support staff growth and retention.

4. Operational Efficiency and Innovation:
   • Digital Strategy: Develop a digital strategy to leverage technology for improved educational outcomes and operational efficiency.
   • Estates Management: Implement the Estates Management Framework to optimise the use of school facilities and resources.

5. Financial Sustainability:
   • Identify Funding Streams: Access and utilise various funding streams to support the Trust’s growth and development projects.
   • Maintain Financial Health: Ensure the Trust remains financially robust with strong financial management practices.

6. Governance and Accountability:
   • Governance Development: Create a development and induction programme for governance, ensuring that local governing boards add measurable value to school performance.
   • Due Diligence Process: Establish a documented due diligence process to manage risks and resource requirements effectively.

7. Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Strengthen Partnerships: Foster strategic partnerships with local authorities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to enhance the Trust’s reputation and influence.
   • Engage School Communities: Maintain strong engagement with school communities, ensuring that the Trust’s schools are responsive to local needs and aspirations.

These goals reflect Extol Trust’s commitment to continuous improvement, strategic growth and partnerships while maintaining our reputation for excellence in school improvement and we are delighted that we have met many of these goals.

We are reviewing our current strategic plan in which the Trust aims to build on its existing strengths, whilst embracing new opportunities and innovations to optimise the Trust to achieve its vision for the future. Our new CEO will be essential in facilitating this.

The North East

Our Trust is situated in the diverse North East region, specifically the Wear Valley, and falls under four local authorities; Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees and Sunderland. The North East region is distinctive and encompasses both urban and rural landscapes, including the North Sea coast. It is characterised by a rich industrial heritage, scenic natural beauty, and a growing focus on innovation and regeneration.

Wear Valley

Wear Valley is a picturesque area located in County Durham, in the northeastern part of England. The district covered much of the Weardale area, which is known for its natural beauty and rural charm.

The landscape of Wear Valley is predominantly high, bleak limestone uplands, part of the Pennines, which descend gradually to the east and are drained by the River Wear. The upper part of the valley, known as Weardale, is confined by steep walls and is popular for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and trout fishing.

Historically, Wear Valley was significant for its lead, ironstone, limestone, and coal mining industries. However, coal production has ceased, and the area now focuses on light industrial estates and agriculture. The valley is also known for its hardy breeds of sheep and dairy farming.

The largest settlements in the area include Bishop Auckland, Crook, and Willington. Bishop Auckland serves as the commercial centre of the region.

Tees Valley

Historically, Tees Valley was a powerhouse of the UK's industrial sector, particularly in steelmaking, chemical production, and shipbuilding. This legacy is still evident in the region’s landscape and economy, however there is significant aspiration for economic diversification, cultural vibrancy, and environmental sustainability. The region is undergoing significant economic transformation, shifting from traditional industries to sectors such as digital technology, advanced manufacturing, and green energy. The Teesworks site, for example, is one of Europe’s largest industrial regeneration projects, focusing on clean energy and innovative industries.

Tees Valley has a diverse population with vibrant communities that reflect a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. Middlesbrough, the largest town in the region, is known for its multicultural atmosphere. The region also offers a rich cultural landscape with numerous museums, art galleries, sports centres and historic sites, as well as public parks, nature reserves, and the scenic seaside towns of Saltburn and Redcar. Slightly further afield, you are close to the historic city of Durham and the picturesque North York Moors National Park.

Hartlepool

Located on the stunning northeast coast of England, Hartlepool is a town full of history, innovation, and opportunity. With a rich maritime heritage, including the iconic Hartlepool Marina and the renowned National Museum of the Royal Navy, the town offers a unique blend of culture, modern amenities, and scenic beauty.

Hartlepool has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, with thriving industries in sectors like digital, manufacturing, and renewable energy. It's home to a diverse and growing economy, making it an exciting place to build your career and lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a dynamic work environment, affordable housing, or an excellent work-life balance, Hartlepool offers the perfect mix of opportunities and quality of life.

With its excellent transport links, including direct rail connections to major cities like London, Newcastle and York, Hartlepool is well connected for work and leisure. The beautiful coastline, green spaces, and close-knit community make it an ideal place for families, professionals, and adventurers alike.

Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough is a vibrant and forward-thinking town with a proud history and an exciting future. With a population of over 170,000, the town is growing and evolving, offering a dynamic mix of culture, innovation, and opportunity. Middlesbrough is known for its diverse community, its blend of urban and green spaces, and its thriving arts and tech scenes.

The town is home to a wide range of attractions, from the iconic Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge to the world-class MIMA (Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art) and the bustling Hillstreet Shopping Centre. Whether you’re into theatre, live music, or dining out, Middlesbrough offers plenty of entertainment options. With its excellent parks, nature reserves, and nearby coastline, it’s a place where you can enjoy both city life and outdoor adventures.

Middlesbrough has become a hub for digital industries, innovation, and education, with Teesside University leading the way in research and development. The town’s thriving business sector spans a variety of industries, from advanced manufacturing to digital media, providing plenty of career opportunities.

Located just a short drive from the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside and the stunning coast, Middlesbrough offers a great balance of city living and access to nature. The town is well connected, with easy transport links to Newcastle, Leeds, and Manchester, and under three hours from London by train.

Stockton-On-Tees

Nestled in the heart of the Tees Valley, Stockton-on-Tees is a dynamic region with a population of 200,000 and a proud, growing community. With six vibrant towns—Billingham, Norton, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton, Thornaby, and Yarm—there’s always something happening to suit every taste and lifestyle.

Stockton-on-Tees is a hub of culture, entertainment, and leisure. From the iconic Stockton Globe, the largest live entertainment venue between Newcastle and Leeds, to a range of theatres, museums, and shopping experiences, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and parks, there is a perfect balance of urban energy and natural beauty.

Beyond the bustling towns, Stockton-on-Tees is just a short drive from the coast, with the stunning Norty Yorshire Moors right on the doorstep. As the largest of the five local councils in the Tees Valley region, the borough is a key part of the region’s exciting future.

Sunderland

Sunderland is a dynamic and thriving city that blends rich history with modern innovation. Home to over 170,000 people, Sunderland offers a vibrant mix of culture, industry, and natural beauty. With a strong sense of community and a growing economy, it’s no wonder that people are proud to call Sunderland home.

Sunderland boasts a wealth of attractions, from the historic Sunderland Empire Theatre to the world-class National Glass Centre and the stunning Sunderland Marina. The city offers a great range of shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as beautiful parks, beaches, and nearby countryside. Whether you enjoy a night out in the city or a peaceful walk along the coastline, Sunderland has something for everyone.

As a leading city for innovation, Sunderland is home to thriving sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and clean energy. The University of Sunderland plays a key role in driving forward research and development, while local businesses continue to grow and attract investment. With excellent career opportunities in various industries, Sunderland offers the perfect place to build a successful career.

Sunderland’s coastal location offers breathtaking views and easy access to the surrounding countryside, while the city is well-connected with direct transport links to Newcastle, Durham, and beyond.

You will be very pleasantly surprised by how much the North East area has to offer, there really is something for everybody. It is this diversity and context of our region which gives us the greatest scope as a Trust to enrich our community by providing inclusive education to improve life chances of our young people.