A new multi-academy trust (MAT) aims to enhance the outcomes for children across the region.

Elveden Schools Trust opened on September 1 this year with two founding schools, Elveden C of E Primary Academy, in Elveden, near Thetford, and St Edmundsbury C of E Primary Academy, in Bury St Edmunds.

Lorna Rourke, who is CEO of the new MAT and executive headteacher of Elveden Academy, said Elveden was previously a single-academy trust and had been approached by the diocese and Department for Education to expand.

As it plans to grow, the MAT is looking to welcome more schools, both church and community, in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire in the future.

Mrs Rourke said the new trust was ‘designed to enhance the educational opportunities and outcomes for children across the region’.

With a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment, the trust will share resources, best practices and support, ensuring that all children and staff benefit from being part of a network of schools, she said.

She said: “We believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life. The trust will empower our schools to work together, share knowledge, and ultimately drive school improvement.”

Elveden Academy itself has enjoyed three consecutive ‘outstanding’ Ofsted judgements.

Mrs Rourke said the new trust’s ethos was a child-centred approach, and pupils would have the opportunity to work across the schools as well.

She added that the MAT’s schools would have their own distinct uniqueness and autonomy in what they do and would also be able to share their strengths.

The Elveden Schools Trust central office is now open, in a former house next to Elveden Academy.

Mrs Rourke also said a communication and interaction unit is planned to be built at the school, to be ready to open in 2026.

The 18-place unit, which is a joint project with Suffolk County Council, is for early years and Key Stage 1 pupils who have an education, health and care plan (EHCP).

Mrs Rourke said it was a really ‘exciting’ time: “It’s the next stage in our journey as we grow as a school [Elveden].

“As a small school we are always looking at how we can increase the opportunities for staff and children.”

She added: “We have lots of plans happening and lots of things we can do to improve the life chances of all children – that’s our main aim really.”

Elveden Academy is virtually at capacity with 104 pupils on roll.