The Trust Boards of both Weald of Kent Grammar School and the Girls’ Learning Trust have formally approved the decision for Weald of Kent to join the Girls’ Learning Trust. This follows the Department for Education’s consent on 26 March 2026 and represents an important milestone in the development of the partnership. 

The decision has been informed by a comprehensive period of due diligence, alongside engagement with staff, parents and the wider community. 

While the level of formal written consultation response was limited, in-person engagement sessions with staff and parents were constructive and reflected a thoughtful and considered discussion about the proposal. This engagement, alongside wider analysis, has confirmed a strong alignment between the two organisations, including a shared commitment to high-quality education, strong school identity, and the benefits of collaboration within a multi-academy trust. 

A number of consistent themes were raised, including the importance of maintaining the distinct character of the school, ensuring clarity about the practical implications of joining a trust, and taking a well-planned approach to any future changes. These will be reflected in the way the next phase of work is approached. 

The Girls’ Learning Trust has been identified as a partner following a thorough exploration of options. Its focus on girls’ education, strong academic outcomes, and operating model of autonomy with alignment — where schools retain their identity and leadership while benefiting from collaboration — were key factors in this decision. 

Subject to the completion of the necessary legal, governance, and operational processes, the intention is that Weald of Kent Grammar School will formally join the Girls’ Learning Trust on 1 November 2026. 

There is, however, significant work to be completed before that point. This includes the legal transfer process, the establishment of governance arrangements, systems and operational alignment, and formal staff consultation as part of TUPE. These processes will be undertaken carefully and in accordance with statutory requirements. 

Further updates will be shared as planning progresses. 

 

Robin Jones (Chair of Trustees): 

“This decision follows a thorough and considered process. The engagement with staff and parents, particularly through in-person discussions, has been valuable in shaping our understanding of what matters most to the school community. 

Our work with the Girls’ Learning Trust has demonstrated a strong alignment in values and ambition, and we are confident that this partnership provides a positive foundation for the future.” 

 

Richard Booth (Headteacher): 

“Weald of Kent is a strong and successful school, and it has been important to ensure that any future partnership builds on that foundation. 

The conversations we have had with staff and parents have been thoughtful and constructive and have helped to inform how we approach the next phase. Our priority now is to ensure a clear and well-managed transition, with a continued focus on stability for staff and students.” 

 

Dr Thomas Flynn (Chief Executive Officer, Girls’ Learning Trust): 

“This is a significant step for both organisations. From the outset, we have been clear that any partnership must be grounded in genuine alignment and deliver clear educational benefit over the long term. 

 

The engagement that has taken place, particularly through direct discussion with staff and stakeholders, has reinforced that alignment. We now move into a detailed planning phase, including formal consultation with staff and careful implementation across all areas.”