Consultation

Consultation on the Proposed Transfer of Balmoral Learning Trust to Tyne and Wear Learning Trust

Introduction

Balmoral Learning Trust is proposing to transfer from its current status into Tyne and Wear Learning Trust. This page provides information about the proposal and explains how stakeholders can take part in the consultation process.

We are committed to openness and transparency, and we welcome feedback from all those with an interest in our schools.

Why is this proposal being considered?

The Trustees of Balmoral Learning Trust have been carefully reviewing the long-term sustainability and strategic direction of the Trust. Following this review, Trustees believe that joining Tyne and Wear Learning Trust would offer significant benefits, including:

• Stronger collaboration with a wider network of schools
• Enhanced professional development opportunities for staff
• Access to shared expertise, systems, and resources
• Increased capacity to support school improvement and pupil outcomes
• Greater long-term financial and organisational resilience

This proposal is driven by a desire to secure the best possible educational outcomes for our pupils, both now and in the future.

About Tyne and Wear Learning Trust

Tyne and Wear Learning Trust is an established multi-academy trust with a strong commitment to  school improvement, collaboration, and community engagement. The Trust shares Balmoral Learning Trust’s values and commitment to high-quality education, inclusion, and opportunity for all learners.

If the transfer proceeds, the schools currently within Balmoral Learning Trust would become part of Tyne and Wear Learning Trust, while continuing to serve their local communities.

What would this mean in practice?

If the transfer is approved:

• Schools would retain their identity, ethos, and day-to-day leadership
• There would be no change to pupils’ attendance, curriculum, or uniform
• Staff would transfer under TUPE arrangements, protecting terms and conditions
• Governance arrangements would be updated to reflect the new Trust structure
• Strategic oversight, support, and accountability would sit with Tyne and Wear Learning Trust

Any changes would be carefully planned and communicated.

The Consultation Process

This consultation is an opportunity for stakeholders to share their views before any final decision is made. Feedback is invited from:

• Parents and carers
• Staff
• Pupils (where appropriate)
• Local communities
• Partner organisations

The consultation will run from 19^th December 2025 to Friday 16^th January 2026.

All responses will be considered by the Trustees of Balmoral Learning Trust before a final decision is taken.

How to Share Your Views

You can take part in the consultation by:

• Emailing your comments to: enquiries@balmorallearningtrust.co.uk
• Writing to us at Balmoral Learning Trust Consultation, C/O East Herrington Primary Academy, Balmoral Terrace, Sunderland, SR3 3PR
• In Person- If you would like to speak to either the CEO or Chair of the Trust please contact- 01915634244

What Happens Next?

After the consultation period closes:

1. All feedback will be reviewed and summarised
2. Trustees will consider the consultation outcomes
3. A final decision will be made and communicated to stakeholders
4. If approved, the transfer will be subject to regulatory and legal processes

Updates will be shared via the website and direct communications.

Further Information

If you have any questions about the proposal or the consultation process, please contact:

Mrs S Bell (CEO Balmoral Learning Trust)
Email: enquiries@balmorallearningtrust.co.uk
Telephone: 0191 563 4244

Or

Mrs A Emmerson (CEO Tyne and Wear Learning Trust)

Email: ceo@tyneandwearlt.co.uk

Telephone: 0191 500 8707