Pontefract Academies Trust has been shortlisted for the ‘MAT of the year’ award 

We are thrilled to announce that our Trust has been shortlisted for the ‘MAT of the year’ award’ at the 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐌𝐀𝐓 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬! 

Delivered by Optimus Education, in partnership with the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), the awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the hard work, dedication and commitment of multi-academy trusts around the country. 

We are proud to be nominated and it is a testament to the efforts we put in each day to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people in and around Pontefract.  

Our Trust has undergone a transformational journey, and from being one of the weakest Trusts for primary outcomes in March 2018. Our primary schools now stand as some of the strongest in the country and our secondary schools are in the top 7% for student progress nationally. As a locality based trust that is rooted in its local communities, we are keen to build upon our strong foundations and look to continually improve our schools. 

Julian Appleyard OBE, CEO of Pontefract Academies Trust, said “I am extremely proud that we have been nominated for this award. We take great pride in our commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive, and this recognition is a reflection of that. I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone who has contributed to this achievement, and congratulations to all the other nominees.” 

As a Trust we are grateful to be surrounded by a strong team of staff, committed pupils and a supportive community. It is important for all of us to take a moment to recognise the importance of this public recognition as it truly emphasises that as a Trust we are “stronger as one”.  

To learn more about Optimus Education’s MAT Excellence Awards visit https://matexcellence.co.uk/