A Primary school in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent became the first Outstanding Staffordshire school to join the Co-op Academies Trust on 1st October.

Co-op Academies Trust was founded in 2012 and runs 29 other academies across the North of England, three in Staffordshire. The Trust is recognised for its community centric approach to education, and its commitment to providing greater opportunities to young people. 

Glebe became a stand alone academy in 2013 and has been a popular choice for the local community, consistently providing strong outcomes for its Fenton students. 

Glebe Academy and Co-op Academies Trust already have a strong working relationship, and are very excited to be cementing this mutually beneficial partnership. 

Susanne Oakes-Smith, Headteacher at the school, said “We are very excited to be formally joining the Co-op Academies Trust. 

“Being part of the Trust will enable us to work collaboratively with other schools who have the same vision and values as ourselves, enabling us to build on our successes, develop further, and provide wider opportunities. 

“Together we can achieve the best possible outcomes and experiences for the children in our academy”

Dr Chris Tomlinson, CEO Co-op Academies Trust, said : 

“I am delighted that Glebe Academy is joining our Trust. They are truly an excellent school and about to acquire world class status which reflects the fantastic education they provide to all their students and community. 

“They are a perfect ethical fit for our Trust. We welcome them to the Trust and really look forward to working with them more in partnership.”

The school will be known as Co-op Academy Glebe following the conversion on October 1st 2022.

Changes to uniform and signage will be phased in over the coming months and no parent or carer will be out of pocket by the change of name.