We, the parents, carers, and stakeholders of Cathedral Schools Trust (CST), call upon the Board of Trustees and Directors to initiate an independent governance review into the leadership and management of the Trust.

This petition reflects a growing loss of confidence in the Trust’s current leadership structure and decision-making processes, following recent industrial action, unresolved pay disputes, and community concern about transparency, consultation, and accountability.

Background

CST is entrusted with the education and wellbeing of thousands of pupils across Bristol and the wider region.

Over recent months, a pattern of poor communication, staff unrest, and controversial decision-making has raised serious questions about whether the Trust’s leadership is acting in accordance with its stated values and obligations under company and charity law.

The continuing disruption caused by staff strikes, and the widespread concern among parents and teachers, point to systemic governance issues that can no longer be ignored.

An independent review is now essential to restore confidence and to ensure the Trust’s operations remain aligned with its mission and the Nolan Principles of public life.

What We Are Asking For

We respectfully urge the Board of Trustees and Directors of Cathedral Schools Trust to:

Commission an independent governance review to examine leadership effectiveness, transparency, decision-making, and stakeholder engagement across the Trust.

Publish the findings of that review in full, together with a clear plan of action to address any weaknesses identified.

Ensure accountability by taking all necessary actions in line with the Trust’s Articles of Association and governance framework — including changes to senior leadership where the review finds that this would best serve the interests of pupils, staff, and the wider CST community.

Why This Matters

The reputation and stability of Cathedral Schools Trust depend on strong governance and transparent leadership.

Parents and staff deserve confidence that decisions affecting their children and workplaces are made openly, fairly, and competently.

A governance review provides a constructive, lawful, and responsible path to restoring trust — ensuring that CST’s leadership remains accountable to the people it serves and that its future growth is built on integrity and collaboration.

Who We Are

This petition is organised by parents, carers, and community members of Cathedral Schools Trust who believe in our schools, value our staff, and want to see leadership held to the highest standards of accountability.

We act not out of division, but out of commitment — to fairness, transparency, and the long-term success of every school within the Trust.