PLANS are underway for a schools trust to develop a new permanent base in York.

Middlesbrough academy chain Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) which runs five schools in York - All Saints secondary and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, St Wilfrid's, St Aelred's and St George's primaries is planning to base an administrative hub in the city.

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The trust is undertaking a consultation with head teachers from its York schools to plan the operational requirements of the new permanent hub which is set to open in September at St Wilfrid's RC in Monkgate.

In addition the heads at trust schools St Mary’s, Malton, St Joseph’s, Pickering, and All Saints, Thirsk will also be involved.

They say it's part of a revamp of the current temporary hub provision - also at St Wilfrid's - 'ensuring a long-term solution the trust believes better serves the needs of its schools, staff and pupils in the region'.

NPCAT CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “We recognise the importance of a robust and efficient support system for our schools in York.

“The new hub will not only provide a permanent home but will also address the evolving needs of our schools, enabling them to focus on delivering the best possible outcomes for their pupils.

“It will also account for misinterpretation in some quarters that NPCAT is a Middlesbrough trust, rather than a diocesan trust within the Diocese of Middlesbrough.

“This consultation is a vital step in shaping a hub that truly reflects the aspirations of our school communities.”

He says the revamped hub provision will focus on:
 

  • Streamlined operations: enhancing efficiency in administrative and support functions.
  • Professional development: creating opportunities for staff training and collaboration.
  • Community engagement: strengthening connections with families, parishes and the wider community.


Mr Hegarty said the next step will be for the trust’s York heads to play a central role in shaping the hub’s development, ensuring it meets the unique requirements of NPCAT schools throughout the city and neighbouring communities and parishes.