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 successful:
- 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 was completed between 19th December 2025 to Friday 16th January 2026.
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?
The transfer was approved by the North East Regional Board in January 2026. The planned date of transfer is 1st September 2026.
Further Information
If you have any questions about the proposal, the consultation process or the transfer, 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