Having had three children experience the nurturing environment of two PALT schools over the last 19 years, I have seen firsthand the dedication to developing a culture powered by care, led by dedicated teachers, and grounded in community-based education. They rallied during flooding and the pandemic, putting our children first.
As a former primary school governor involved in educational leadership, I know well the time and effort it takes to cultivate and sustain this type of environment.
The PALT schools are not just educational institutions; they are communities that foster the values of inclusivity, creativity, and mutual respect across the Calder Valley

It is imperative to safeguard this ethos that has been meticulously crafted over the years. A public meeting of over 220 parents, teachers, students and governors overwhelmingly rejected the seemingly hostile takeover of all PALT schools.

The proposed merger between PALT and Trinity raises significant serious concerns about transparency, due process, and the involvement of parents and children in critical decision-making processes. The lack of shared ethos, approach to behaviour, SEND matters, admissions and more are all of grave concern to those likely to be affected.

The decision to proceed with this recent merger has been, to many, abrupt and shrouded in ambiguity, which has led to uncertainty, anxiety and anger among many parents, staff, and students. We must urge the trustees and stakeholders to reconsider this merger, ensuring that every step is taken with the community’s full and complete engagement and consensus.

Statistics and research highlight that mergers in educational settings can lead to the dilution of school-specific cultures and educational philosophies, this is truer here than most. In a research report by the National Education Policy Center, it was found that sudden and unconsulted school mergers can often result in reduced community involvement and satisfaction in the schooling experience. We must learn from these findings to prevent such outcomes for our community.

Moreover, it is crucial to hold community forums where parents and students can voice their opinions and concerns. Only through open dialogue can we ensure that any decisions made accurately reflect the wishes and welfare of those most affected.

Consulting a wide range of current and former education professionals, especially those who have been part of these institutions, will ensure further insights. This must be done so any future arrangements are in the best interests of our children’s educational future.

Please join us in calling for a halt to the PALT/Trinity merger/takeover until thorough consultation processes with parents, children, and other key stakeholders are conducted and made transparent. Add your support to preserve the unique culture of the PALT schools.

We demand the results of the merger “listening exercise” be made public and shared with all PALT stakeholders. 

Furthermore, if the Trust Board merger with Trinity is clearly rejected, that other options be put on the table after full and transparent discussion with all PALT schools and their stakeholders.

We ask the Secretary of State for Education Bridgett Phillipson and the DFE to intervene if this is not paused and implemented with transparency, due process and WITH the communities, parents, faculty and children affected. 

#SavePALT