At the heart of our Multi Academy Trust lies a simple, powerful conviction: education is about more than just results; it is about belonging and togetherness.

 

In a world that often feels increasingly divided, our Trust schools must be sanctuaries of unity because schools are the social glue that holds their community together. We strive to be a community-centred Trust where every learner, staff member, and parent/carer knows they are seen, heard and valued. Put simply, so that every individual knows that they belong in Batley.

 

We are guided by the timeless words of the late, inspirational Jo Cox:

 

"We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us."

 

This isn't just a sentiment; it is part of our mission. Whether in the classroom or the playground, we celebrate our differences while anchoring ourselves in the shared values that bring us together. When we focus on our common humanity, we create an environment where every individual can truly flourish.

 

Join us this June

 

To put these values into action, I am inviting our entire Trust community to participate in The Great Get Together this June. It will be 10 years this year since Jo was tragically murdered, and our schools have worked incredibly hard over the past decade to keep Jo’s memory alive and to build a legacy to her by continuing some of the great work she started in Batley. These Great Get Together events are a wonderful opportunity to reject division and celebrate the connections we share.

• Great Get Together Events: Look out for local celebrations, picnics, and community projects taking place across our schools throughout June.

• The Batley Bake Off: Enter your own cake creation into our Batley Bake Off Competition held at Upper Batley High School on Friday 19 June. 10am-12.30pm. There are prizes for first, second and third place.

• The Run for Jo: On Sunday 21 June, we encourage you to lace up your trainers for the "Run for Jo." Whether you run, jog, or walk, it is a powerful way to stand together in solidarity and joy. There is also a 2.5km run for our youngest learners and those less keen on a longer run/walk! Sign up here: https://racebest.com/races/runforjo2026

 

Let’s show that our Trust is more than just a collection of buildings—it is a family. I look forward to seeing you there.

 

Together, we are stronger.