Haylands Primary School has identified Lift Schools as its potential preferred partner as the school considers becoming an academy and joining an academy trust.
The Governing Body and Leadership Team have written to staff and families about the future direction of the school to confirm they have explored joining an academy trust, and that having considered a number of options, Lift Schools has been chosen as the academy trust that most closely aligns with Haylands’ vision, values, and ambition for the future.
Governors have made clear that no final decision has been taken.
The school is now entering a more formal period of engagement and due diligence with Lift Schools, during which both organisations will explore educational, financial and estates considerations to ensure there is a strong mutual fit.
Haylands is a proud community primary school, and serves the Ryde area. Over recent months, governors have been reflecting on the long-term direction of the school, prompted by national developments in education and changes in the educational landscape across the Isle of Wight. Governors emphasised that any future partnership must enhance what is already strong about Haylands while providing access to high-quality school improvement support and collaborative networks. In considering potential trusts, governors were clear that any partner must demonstrate exceptional Key Stage 2 outcomes and a local presence on the Isle of Wight.
Following an initial period of exploring possible academy trust options, Lift Schools emerged as the preferred option. Lift is a national trust of 58 schools operating through a strong regional model. If Haylands were to join, the school would become part of Lift’s South West region, working closely with 10 other schools, including 5 mainstream primary schools.
Lift’s nearest school is Lift Ryde (Ryde High/Ryde Academy) which is one of the highest-performing secondary schools on the Island and has a growing reputation as a school of choice locally. Governors and leaders have been encouraged by Lift Ryde’s experience within the trust and the strength of educational and operational support available.
Bob Bullivant, Chair of Governors at Haylands Primary School, has said:
“Haylands is a proud community school, and we are absolutely committed to ensuring that it continues to serve our community for generations to come. As governors, we want to secure a strong and ambitious future for the school, building on our many strengths while ensuring we have access to the highest-quality school improvement support.
“After careful consideration, we believe that Lift Schools is closely aligned with our values and ethos. Importantly, Lift places great emphasis on each school’s identity and its role within the local community. We are excited to move into a more formal period of engagement, while being clear that no final decision has yet been made.”
