London South East Academies Trust has been named as Trust of the Year in the national Tes Schools Awards 2024.
Judges recognised the Trust as one that ‘changes lives’ and ‘renews hope’, having taken on some challenging schools and improving them rapidly. It also highlighted how all its schools respond to their community’s needs, and that every single pupil matters.
In their 16th year and with 23 categories, the Tes Schools Awards are recognised as the ‘Oscars of education’. They celebrate outstanding contributions and exceptional achievements made by leaders, teachers, schools and trusts across the sector.
London South East Academies Trust won the Trust of the Year (nine schools or less) award, recognising its successful network of mainstream, special and alternative provision schools across Bromley, Bexley, Lambeth and Surrey - including Bromley Beacon Academy and Bromley Trust Academy, which have sites in Orpington.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Tes Schools Awards judge Sir Steve Lancashire, said:
“There’s something about London South East Academies Trust that makes them very distinctive, not least that they’ve taken on some challenging schools, and delivered.
“Today they are recognised for being a trust that changes lives and renews hope, but it wasn’t just the impact they’ve had on their schools, it’s the impact of their actions on their community and their response to the community’s needs.
“I truly felt that every single young person mattered to that Trust and that shines through.”
CEO of London South East Academies Trust, Dr Sam Parrett CBE, says:
“Winning this award in an incredibly proud moment for us all. It is testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff – to all of whom I am extremely grateful.
“As a Trust, we work really hard to transform the lives of the children in our academies through the power of learning. Having our work recognised in this way is such an honour and it’s important to celebrate the amazing work that goes on in schools across the country.”
This award comes as the Trust celebrates its ten-year anniversary. Originally named Bromley Educational Trust (before becoming London South East Academies Trust in 2016), it took on its first two schools in 2014/15.
Steady growth over the past decade has seen its network expand to ten schools. Four more are currently in the process of joining, including an Alternative Provision in East Sussex and three mainstream primary schools in Bexley.
Chair of London South East Academies Trust, Rama Venchard MBE, adds:
“It’s absolutely clear to see in all our schools that the pupils come first. Staff go above and beyond every single day, with everyone playing their part in this success.
“Like all schools, ours face many challenges in terms of funding and increasing need of pupils. Yet, staff continue to deliver exceptional teaching and learning, as well as outstanding pastoral care and support.
“Huge congratulations to everyone, from the exceptional Trust leaders, through to every single staff member in every school. This award belongs to you all and is very much deserved. I look forward to celebrating the Trust’s future achievements as it continues to grow and supports even more children and young people across the region.”
For more information about the Tes Awards and this year’s winners visit: https://www.tes.com/en-gb/schools-awards
For more information about London South East Academies Trust, visit: www.lseat.ac.uk
