#togetherwegrow
This summer term, we were delighted to welcome three new schools into the Marches Academy Trust: Selattyn CofE Primary School, Cockshutt CofE Primary School, and Criftins CofE Primary School. With the inclusion of MATi, the Trust now consists of 15 schools. We’re delighted to have them join our family of schools and look forward to getting to know them and building strong relationships through collaboration and shared learning.
At the heart of our Trust is a commitment to making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. A great example of this is our recent uniform policy consultation. Over 7,000 parents, carers, children, and young people shared their views, resulting in a policy shaped by the voices of our community.
One of our proudest developments this year is The Shore, a new transition model designed to make the move from primary to secondary school more personal and supportive. Based on feedback from families, staff, and pupils, we’re continuing to refine this model with further improvements planned for September 2025.
Two years ago, we launched our own charity, the 4ALL Foundation, to invest in our communities and help children and young people thrive. It’s been a huge success, supporting people from 6 months to 92 years old! You’ll read more about its impact in this newsletter. We’re encouraging all our schools to get behind this fantastic initiative.
Our One Voice project empowers pupils to lead change in their schools. Each year, 10 children from every school take part, identifying areas for improvement and creating solutions. The July 10th showcase was a joyful celebration of their achievements and the difference they’ve made.
Listening to our community is central to everything we do. That’s why we’re excited to launch Open6 in September 2025, a new Sixth Form initiative inspired by feedback from our Year 11–13s. Open6 will offer a broader range of subjects taught asynchronously, alongside a combined enrichment programme. We’re also forming ‘super teams’ in football, netball, rugby, and tennis, as well as joint choirs, orchestras, and art exhibitions across our four Sixth Forms.
Thank you for your continued support. We are deeply grateful to our families and staff for everything you do to help our schools and communities grow stronger together.
Sarah Finch CEO | The Marches Academy Trust
Connect with us to find out more about our mission
marchesacademytrust.co.uk
@MarchesAcademyTrust
Together We Grow Podcast
This year, we’ve worked closely with children and young people, families, staff and community partners to understand what it truly means to belong in our schools. Through conversations, surveys, OneVoice groups and family feedback, we’ve listened carefully to how we can ensure every child feels seen, valued and supported.
A highlight was our first Wisdom of the Crowd session, where children and young people challenged the thinking of professionals and led the change they wanted to see. Their voices shaped our new trustwide principles: Everybody Matters: The Building Blocks of Belonging. These now guide how we create stronger relationships, safer spaces and more connected communities.
We’ve seen this in action through our MATi programme, which provides personalised support for children and young people to re-engage with learning. This term, one of our MATislands in Shrewsbury welcomed HRH The Princess Royal, who saw first-hand how care and community are transforming lives.
Our partnership with the 4ALL Foundation continues to grow, with inclusive clubs and mentoring that support confidence, connection and aspiration. In the new year, we’ll also host a major careers event to connect our communities with future opportunities.
At Marches Academy Trust, Achievement Through Caring starts with belonging. Together, we’re building the foundations for every child’s future.
We have had a busy time here at Selattyn Primary School this term. As usual we have been working in partnership with our whole school community proving once more we may be small, but we have a big heart.
We all came together in the village church in May to mark the anniversary of VE Day. This was a very special service in which we all took part to remember this important part of history.
We continue to work in collaboration with others and this has been significantly strengthened by joining the Trust in June. This will enable us to grow, prosper and thrive by working with like minded individuals and schools for the benefit of all.
We have aimed to provide our children with rich learning opportunities in all areas of the curriculum, this has included field trips to Llandudno and Ellesmere as well as Chester Zoo. Many of our children have taken part in
sporting competitions and thoroughly enjoyed the regional athletics festival at Queensway in Wrexham where everyone made us proud.
We have been developing our spirituality by taking part in an 'Open Hearts' day with other schools and raising our understanding of different world faiths by inviting a Hindu cleric into school to carry out workshops and presentations for the whole school family.
Our new County Councillor Mr Craig Emery visited school and is looking forward to working with and supporting our School Council.
Lots to look forward to heading to the new academic year in September.
This term, we’ve launched our new Ready, Respectful, Safe strategy, language that underpins the culture we’re building together. A key part of this shift has been reimagining Tutor Groups as Crews, with Crew time now focused on developing a deeper sense of belonging and trust among children and staff.
Crews will grow together, building collective responsibility and strong relationships. Morning routines are purposeful and inclusive, with no lining up—standards are maintained through Crew accountability. We’ve introduced regular “circling up” discussions to encourage open dialogue, reflection, and connection.
These changes are helping our children feel more secure, engaged, and invested in their learning community.
Our Year 10s and Year 12s have had a brilliant time on work experience this term. From creative industries
to local offices and care settings, their commitment and professionalism stood out. They represented our school values with pride, and we couldn’t be more pleased.
A heartfelt thank-you to our local businesses and community partners for offering such enriching opportunities. Your support has made a lasting impact on our young people’s confidence and aspirations.
As part of the One Voice community project, children have been making regular visits to Bradbury Care Centre. During these visits, they have led on a range of engaging activities designed to stimulate residents’ minds, creativity, physical movement, and senses. The visits have been a rewarding experience for both our children and service users, with strong relationships forming across the generations.
One service user said, "We really look forward to your visits. You show a genuine interest in getting to know us and help keep our minds sharp.”
Year 8 recently took part in the annual SJT Model United Nations (MUN) Climate Change Conference, led by Community Governor Gareth VonDinther. The event began
with an opening address from the Secretary-General of the United Nations, setting the tone for a day of global thinking and collaboration.
Children represented twelve different countries, independently researching their nation’s contributions to greenhouse gas emissions, the effects of climate change on their region, and the pledges they would make as part of the upcoming COP29 Summit.
Each group presented their findings through detailed posters and speeches to their peers. Eight countries were then selected to participate in the final MUN conference, where children debated and negotiated potential global solutions.
It was a fantastic opportunity for our children to build their research, presentation, and critical thinking skills, while developing a deeper understanding of climate issues on a global scale.
We are overjoyed with the outcome of our SIAMS inspection this term. The report reflects the heart and soul of Tilstock CE Primary School, a place where every child is valued, every voice is heard, and our shared Christian vision shines in all that we do. Worship here is not just a practice; it’s a celebration of who we are as a community.
Highlights of our community church work with Rev Chris and Rev Sue, have included working with the Saltmine Theatre company to bring bible stories to life and the ‘Open Doors Open Hearts’ event at St Alkmund's Church.
Amongst many of our community events this year, our favourite was the day we went back to 1945 at Tilstock School to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE day. We had a whole school afternoon tea party - we listened to Churchills speech, we heard 1940s music, we danced and we had very yummy afternoon tea outside.
This year, the One Voice children, supported by Mrs White-Culf, have passionately focused on the homeless in our community. Their efforts included crafting items to sell at the Christmas fair, writing to the Mayor of Whitchurch, and meeting him to discuss local support. They also organised a successful donation appeal, collecting clothes, books, and toys for the Ark Charity shop in Shrewsbury. Most recently, they reached out to Aldi, who responded generously with bags of donations. The group continues their mission by preparing items for the upcoming summer fair. Their dedication has made a meaningful impact on the community and raised awareness of homelessness
Building Stronger Connections: This year, The Grove School has deepened its roots in the Market Drayton community, forging partnerships and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. From local collaborations to student-led initiatives, the spirit of togetherness has defined our journey.
Community Highlights: Community Steering Group:
A dynamic collaboration of local industries and services working with Team Grove to create shared opportunities. Armed Forces Covenant: Officially signed, pledging support for service children and their families. This is an historic covenant as The Marches Multi Academy Trust is the first trust to sign up to such an initiative. Parent Partnership Group: Newly formed and already making an impact—leading the charge on the upcoming Summer Fair, the largest in over a decade. The group has organically grown from passionate parents wanting to help the transformation of Team Grove. Market Drayton 10k: Proud hosts once again, with our grounds also welcoming local sports clubs on weekends.
Student-Led Community Action: Tree Planting: Every child in Year 7 planted a tree, symbolising their growth and long-term connection to the school.
Public Speaking & Leadership: Children led initiatives like “Speeches Freed”, the Environment Group, and “Welcome to The Shore” prefects. Charity & Service: Our children supported local hospices, charity shops, food banks, and litter-picking drives, demonstrating compassion and civic responsibility.
Intergenerational Bonds: The Birks Partnership: Children in Year 8 continue a 30-year tradition of visiting The Birks, strengthening ties between generations and fostering empathy.
Listening to Our Community: Parent Voice: Surveys and events revealed overwhelming support and valuable suggestions, shaping school decisions. Staff Voice: A culture of openness and wellbeing has led to increased staff satisfaction and engagement.
Looking Forward: Heart Spaces: New social hubs for each year group to foster peer connection and a sense of belonging. Learning for Life Centre: Launching soon to support inclusive, community-minded education for all of our children. Curriculum Innovation: A new “Seven Year Journey” model and “Powerful Knowledge” curriculum will further embed community values into learning.
As the summer holidays approach, we reflect on a term filled with joy, connection, and a strong sense of belonging at Lower Heath. A special highlight was our children taking part in Shropshire Sings at Grove School, one of the schools in our Trust. Led by the Shropshire Music Service, this was a fantastic opportunity to perform with other schools and one we hope to repeat next year.
The Summer Fair brought families, staff and friends together in a joyful celebration of community. Our traditional Maypole dancing added colour and charm, and we look forward to seeing it again at the Fauls Village Fete.
Our Enterprise Fair was a great success, with children creating their own businesses and families turning out in full force to support and shop.
Meanwhile, One Voice fundraising allowed children to choose brand-new books for their class libraries.
The 4All Foundation ran hugely popular clubs including quidditch, archery, and nerf wars, and Sports Days brought everyone together, with every child rising to the occasion with proud parents cheering them on.
We also enjoyed a friendly football match with our neighbours at Prees Primary School, which was a brilliant display of teamwork and sportsmanship.
As we prepare to say goodbye to our wonderful Year 6s, we celebrated their journey with a residential at the Pioneer Centre and a trip to Alderford Lake. We’ll miss them and wish them every success.
This year, Longlands has proudly embraced the values of inclusion, collaboration, and care, strengthening the bond between our children, families, and the wider community. We’ve welcomed elderly members of our local area into school, creating opportunities for shared stories, wisdom, and connection across generations.
Our commitment to improving the environment has seen children actively involved in litter picking, taking pride in making our surroundings cleaner and more inviting for everyone.
Through a united focus on school development, our One Voice team have focused on planning spaces that support community initiatives such as Family Story Time and Early Reading Workshops, bringing learning to life beyond the classroom. We have also made collective efforts to enhance our farm and garden. These improvements have enriched the lives of both our animals and our children, reflecting the power of teamwork and shared purpose.
Longlands’ choir has performed at many community events this year. When they do they're doing far more than just sharing music. They're weaving connections
between people, places, and generations. Our school choir reminds everyone that belonging doesn’t need grand gestures. Sometimes, all it takes is a heartfelt song, a shared smile, and a moment spent together.
We ended the year on a high note with our spectacular L Factor performance, a joyful celebration of talent, confidence, and community spirit. It’s been a year of growth, connection, and belonging, and we look forward to building on these foundations in the year ahead.
This term we have embraced a variety of enriching experiences designed to build confidence, teamwork, and community spirit. Recently, selected children participated in equine-assisted sessions, helping them develop key skills such as empathy, resilience, and collaboration. These sessions have been a fantastic opportunity for personal growth and reflection.
Equine-assisted sessions
We have also strengthened our connection with families through our community bingo evenings, which proved to be a success. Parents, staff and our children came together for a fun-filled event, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences beyond the classroom.
Meanwhile, our before-school sports clubs have seen a significant rise in participation, with Mr. Dobson and the PE department leading energetic early morning sessions.
These clubs provide our children with a positive and active start to the day, fostering both physical and mental well-being.
A major highlight was the visit from Julia Buckley MP, who engaged with children, staff and members of the local community before officially opening our new STEAM building.
Additionally, our Student One Voice representatives have made a real impact, influencing key policy changes, including positive updates to the uniform policy, ensuring our children's voices help shape the future of our school.
It has been an inspiring and productive year at Grange Primary. Our Grangers continue to impress with how they live out our school values: Try Our Best, Honesty, Kindness, and Respect.
This summer has brought many opportunities for them to dream big and fly high beyond the classroom. Highlights include the Year 3 residential to Dodford Farm, where children enjoyed exciting outdoor activities and the adventure of a night away with friends.
Careers Week helped Grangers look ahead to their futures, with visitors from industries such as catering, beauty, engineering, and sport inspiring
them to aim high and think without limits. We want all our Grangers to see endless possibilities beyond primary school.
The voices of our children have made a real impact this year. The One Voice group formed meaningful connections with a local nursing home, and it’s been heartwarming to welcome the wider Grange community into school for performances and events.
The School Council has continued its vital role, ensuring children’s voices are heard. They’ve led a variety of successful fundraising initiatives, entirely planned and run by the children themselves.
It’s been a joy to see our Grangers grow, lead, and thrive. We are so proud of each and every one of them.
At the heart of our school is a strong sense of belonging, and this term we’ve seen our community spirit shine brighter than ever.
Our One Voice student voice group has been leading the way in promoting sustainability. They’ve taken action to reduce food waste in school by raising awareness during lunchtimes and encouraging thoughtful choices. They’ve also introduced composting bins, helping to turn food scraps into valuable compost for our school garden, a fantastic step towards our eco-targets.
Our recent Summer Fair was a wonderful celebration of togetherness, with parents, carers, and local residents joining us for a day of fun, fundraising, and connection. It was a joy to see so many families enjoying the event and supporting our school.
We’re also proud to see our Community Hub growing in use. This term, it has hosted
This term, our learners had the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the real world of construction and community development. Learners took part in a site visit to the Morris Property development. Guided by the site team, learners explored the future homes of a vibrant new community space. They learned about the stages of construction and the roles of different professionals on-site. They investigated sustainable building practices and how the project is designed with the environment in mind and delved into the
Stay and Play sessions for young children and their families, as well as parenting workshops led by our dedicated Family Inclusion Lead. These sessions have provided valuable support and a welcoming space for parents to connect and share.
Our Holiday Club continues to be a valued part of our offer, welcoming both our pupils and children from the wider community. It provides a safe, fun, and inclusive environment during school breaks, with activities designed to support wellbeing, creativity, and friendships.
Thank you to everyone who continues to make our school a place where every child and family feels that they are truly a part of.
importance of planning and teamwork in bringing a shared vision to life.
Hard hats and high-vis jackets were worn with pride as learners asked thoughtful questions and imagined how the space will serve future generations. Back at school, the experience came full circle as learners shared their impressions, from the scale of the machinery to the sense of purpose behind the project. The theme was “Belonging and Building Together”, highlighting how places are more than bricks and mortar, they are about people, connection and care.
Also, this term our learners came together in a powerful display of unity and purpose,
representing the school and wider Trust community through a joint video and presentation. The project to present OneVoice was more than a performance, it was a statement of identity, belonging and shared values. Themes of inclusion, ambition and community echoed through, reminding us of the strength found in diversity and collaboration.
This year has been a truly remarkable one for the Idsall Voice group, who have reached new heights in their efforts to support the community and promote kindness. From heart-warming visits to local Care Homes as part of an intergenerational project, to transforming a garden space for our SEND department, our children have gone above and beyond to make a difference. The revamped garden now offers a calming outdoor space, perfect for reflection during the hustle and bustle of school life.
In December, over 30 children, staff, governors and MAT representatives took part in the Big Birmingham Sleep Out, raising an incredible £3,000 to help tackle youth homelessness.
The arts have also flourished, with the return of the school
This year, MATi has supported over 260 young people across our Trust, restoring confidence, rebuilding focus, and creating inclusive pathways to belong and succeed.
More than 150 children accessed our MATi Island programmes, including outdoor learning at Preston Montford, where over 60 learners took part in climbing, canoeing, bushcraft, and conservation. Due to their exceptional conduct, several children were invited to meet HRH Princess Anne during her visit as new Patron of the Field Studies Council. She spoke warmly to children from SA, Grove, and SJT about their experiences and aspirations, creating a truly unforgettable moment.
show Footloose (featuring Ms King!), and outstanding performances from the school band, especially during the Christmas Carol Concert.
Our children represented Idsall proudly at the VE Day flag-raising at St Andrew’s Church and welcomed the British Army for a thrilling day of activities. Over a tonne of donations have supported the Refugee Sanctuary and our local food bank.
From painting at Shifnal Cricket Club to excelling on work experience, our children have shown that kindness, effort and teamwork really do make an impact.
Working together, building stronger community groups.
Child accessing alternative provision through MATi 260 young people supported
One child said: “I behave better in school and last longer in lessons… now I go to lessons and don’t even think about it.”
“My interactions with teachers are getting better. I'm calming down more. AP helps me with my concentration.”
Another reflected, “My interactions with teachers are getting better. I’m calming down more. AP helps with my concentration.”
Through RESTORE, RESET, REDIRECT and RETURN, children have built strong relationships, re-engaged with education and found their voice. MATi is more than intervention, it’s a movement for inclusion and hope, grounded in community.
Join school staff and sports professionals from across Shropshire and beyond for a day packed with inspiration, learning, and fun!
This is your golden opportunity to connect with top sporting organisations and take your school's physical education, school sport, and physical activity to the next level.
Inspiration Galore
Hear from our fantastic keynote speakers who will ignite your passion for PE.
Hands-On Workshops
Participate in valuable sessions throughout the day with experts from Energize STW, RealPE, Tennis Shropshire, Drumba, Shropshire Cricket, Youth Sport Trust, and AFPE.
Networking
Meet and mingle with like-minded professionals and organisations dedicated to enhancing school sports.
Keynote Speakers:
Tom Davies Former Commonwealth Judo Star
Dr Ayaz Bhuta MBE Wheelchair
Rugby
Paralympic Gold Medallist
Don't miss out on this not-to-be-missed event! Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired, informed and energized.
See you there!
Thursday 9th October 2025
Shrewsbury Town Football Club
9:30am to 4pm
