Barnsley secondary school joins expanding multi-academy trust

The Dearne Advanced Learning Centre, in the Dearne Valley, has joined the Astrea Academy Trust.

Principal Joanne Wilson said: "Governors and senior leaders are thrilled to have joined Astrea Academy Trust.

“The decision offers students, staff and families significant opportunities to work even more closely with our partner schools to ensure we offer an outstanding education for all children from age 2 to 16 across the Dearne Valley.

“We are developing a 2020 Vision of Excellence at The Dearne that places ‘Empowering Belief’ at the heart of everything we do.

“This is an exciting time for the school to further innovate within Astrea's ambitious and forward-thinking philosophies.

“There are even greater times ahead for The Dearne."

The school already works closely with a number of academies in the trust, including Netherwood Academy, and four primaries – Carrfield, Gooseacre, Highgate and The Hill. 

Chief executive Libby Nicholas said: “We are absolutely delighted that The Dearne has joined our growing family of schools.

“At Astrea, we are absolutely passionate about delivering an education that ‘inspires beyond measure’.

“We focus on academic excellence, supported by the broadest range of enrichment opportunities encompassing arts, sports, music, debating, leadership and the community.

“We have worked with Joanne Wilson and her team for some time and look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that every pupil has the best possible education throughout their time with us.”