News3rd September 2025

Pontefract Academies Trust and Ark Schools announce proposed merger

We are pleased to share that Pontefract Academies Trust and Ark are planning to merge – combining our expertise to deliver an even stronger provision for the children, staff, and communities we serve.

Pontefract Academies Trust has developed a strong track record of school improvement. Under the leadership of Julian Appleyard OBE, the trust has seen significant improvements in both secondary and primary performance, as well as in its Ofsted ratings. The trust’s secondary schools now perform consistently above the national average, with one school moving from special measures to good in just twelve months. In primary, the trust has gone from one of the lowest-performing nationally to one of the top three multi-academy trusts for primary school outcomes.

The Pontefract Academies Trust Board has been exploring how to build on this success to benefit more children, families and staff in Pontefract and South Kirby – and believes the best way to achieve its aims is to join with a like-minded trust that shares its values and has a proven record of success.

Ark runs 39 schools across Birmingham, Hastings, London and Portsmouth, supporting nearly 30,000 pupils. Its mission is to ensure that all children have access to a great education and real choices in life, regardless of their background. Ark chooses to work where they can make the biggest difference and has been considering growth into new regions where there is strong local leadership and a commitment to delivering excellent results.

Recognising their alignment, shared ambition for greater impact, and complementary strengths, the Boards of both trusts propose a merger, with Pontefract becoming the founding base of a new northern hub for Ark.

If approved by the Department for Education, the plan is for the merger to take place on 1^st September 2026. Stakeholders will be invited to share their feedback, and the trusts will work together closely over the coming year to ensure a smooth transition. There will be no changes to school-based staff as a result of the merger, and Pontefract’s central team and executive will become part of Ark’s wider network structure, based in Pontefract. There will also be PAT representation on the Ark Schools Board to ensure continuity and integration at all levels.

Both trusts are excited about the opportunity to come together to strengthen outcomes, improve efficiencies, invest in staff development, and ensure our schools are places where children can thrive.