Primary school joins multi-academy trust

A Sunderland primary school has joined a growing multi-academy trust after a two-year partnership.

Dame Dorothy Primary School has become the tenth member of Northern Lights Learning Trust (NLLT), which supports more than 4200 pupils across Wearside and Teesside. 

The formal transition took place on February 1.

Northern Lights oversees a mix of primary and secondary schools, including Church of England and community schools. 

Iain Williamson, headteacher of Dame Dorothy, said: “We spoke with many trusts over a two-year period, and all had great strengths and possibilities.

“However, the trust that stood out head and shoulders to us was Northern Lights. 

“Northern Lights comes across as a caring family organisation that values all who are part of it.

“Dame Dorothy wanted to find an organisation that aligned with our values, that puts the children front and centre in all we try to do, and would respect our individuality and uniqueness. 

“We strongly believe Northern Lights is that trust.”

With schools spanning Sunderland, Hartlepool, Washington, Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington, NLLT continues to expand its network.

Jo Heaton, chief executive of NLLT, added: “Our trust mission is to ensure everyone flourishes, with children and young people at the heart of everything we do.

“We support all pupils and staff to grow, develop and ‘be the best they can be’. 

“We are delighted school leaders at Dame Dorothy saw a reflection of themselves in our mission and vision, and we are looking forward to continuing to work alongside them.”

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