Great Learners Trust Shortlisted For Trust Of The Year Category In National School & Trust Leadership Awards 2026

Buckinghamshire-based Great Learners Trust (GLT) has been recognised “as a beacon of innovation, ambition and tangible impact” after being named one of just seven finalists in the Trust of the Year (Medium) category at the School & Trust Leadership Awards 2026.

Hosted by the Network for Education Excellence, the awards celebrate outstanding leadership, innovation and success across the education sector. The national commendation reflects the significant transformation achieved across GLT’s 11 schools and acknowledges the Trust’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences that prepare children not only for academic success, but for life.

Over the past two-and-a-half years, GLT has embarked on a strategic and cultural transformation, raising standards while ensuring pupils flourish socially, emotionally and personally – and this approach, and supporting initiatives, were highlighted in the Trust’s award nomination for Trust of the Year (Medium) 2026.

One of GLT’s most distinctive and pioneering initiatives is its School Bank programme where children have access to a digital bank card and the schools operate a digital banking system. This enables pupils from the earliest years to develop practical financial literacy skills. Through real life experiences of saving, budgeting and managing money, children gain confidence and understanding that will support them throughout their lives.

Alongside this, some schools have established dedicated Digital Suites, equipped with podcasting booths, green screens and professional recording equipment. These spaces enable pupils to become active digital creators, developing skills in communication, content creation, audio production and responsible online publishing. The initiative has transformed digital learning across the Trust, encouraging creativity, collaboration and authentic pupil voice while preparing learners for an increasingly technological world.

GLT has also strengthened its commitment to outdoor learning through the expansion of Forest School provision. Forest School experiences provide pupils with opportunities to develop resilience, independence, creativity and confidence through hands-on learning in natural environments. The programme has had a particularly positive impact on pupil wellbeing and emotional regulation, supporting children to thrive both inside and outside the classroom, the nomination said.

These approaches are underpinned by a relentless focus on educational excellence and inclusion. As a result, pupil outcomes are rising in schools across GLT, with engagement in learning stronger than ever and disadvantaged pupils making notable gains. Carefully targeted interventions, high quality teaching and a commitment to equity have contributed to narrowing attainment gaps and ensuring all children can achieve their full potential.

GLT’s impact is reflected in a number of significant achievements. One school achieved 100% combined attainment last year, while two schools secured improved Ofsted gradings. Across the organisation, leaders and staff collaborate through extensive professional networks, sharing expertise and driving continuous improvement through a culture of collective responsibility. Trust leaders have also shared best practice at major education events including BETT, the EdTech Summit and the Schools and Academies Show.

Further recognition has come through GLT’s nomination for the Digital Innovation Award at the MAT Excellence Awards. Schools within the Trust have achieved a range of notable accreditations and distinctions, including becoming EdTech 50 schools, serving as a flagship school for Oracy 21, and achieving Platinum status for OPAL play provision.

Strong partnerships with families and communities remain central to GLT’s success. Every school has achieved Parentkind accreditation, demonstrating a commitment to meaningful parental engagement and recognising the vital role families play in supporting children’s education and wellbeing.

The Trust’s vision, recently refreshed through extensive collaboration with stakeholders, is built around the belief that education has the power to change lives and communities. Guided by its values of “Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Ambitious,” GLT continues to challenge convention, embrace innovation and create opportunities that empower every learner to succeed.

Sarah Baber, CEO of Great Learners Trust, commented: “This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication, passion and expertise of our staff, leaders, governors and wider school communities. We are proud of the transformational journey we have undertaken together and of the opportunities we continue to create for every child. Being shortlisted reflects our commitment to doing what is best for children, thinking differently and ensuring every learner can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Our congratulations also go to Trinity Multi-Academy Trust, winners of the Trust of the Year (Medium) category.”