School changes its name for fourth time in 10 years

A WARRINGTON High School is to change its name for the fourth time in the last 10 years – and join the town’s Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT).
Padgate Academy Trust – formerly Padgate High School, Lysander High School and University Academy Warrington – in Insall Road will once again take its name from its geographical location in Warrington.
The school was most recently in UCAT – the University of Cheshire Academy Trust – which closed due to financial difficulties earlier this year.
TCAT consists of a group of Warrington schools and colleges including Priestley College, Beamont Collegiate Academy, Bridgewater High School, Penketh High School, Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School and a number of primary schools.
Padgate Academy will retain its existing uniform but will have a new badge, designed by pupils.
Head teacher Misia Barclay said: “This was the right move for Padgate Academy and one that I am sure will benefit both our children and staff.
“The pupils were excited about designing a new badge for the school because it will be their lasting legacy. Our goal is to raise standards and ensure the school remains rooted in the local community.”
Benefits of joining TCAT will include sharing best practice, financial savings and giving youngsters more opportunities both in lessons and outside of classes.
The Padgate students will now have the chance to take part in activities such as the TCAT Parliament, more educational visits and benefit from industrial links with companies such as United Utilities, Barclays and Solvay.
The school will create a local governing body for parents and staff while teachers and managers at Padgate Academy will have access to the TCAT School Improvement Hubs where they will work with colleagues to share best practice.
Matthew Grant, chief executive officer of TCAT and principal at Priestley College, said: “When it was set up TCAT became one of the biggest and most inclusive academies in the country and having Padgate on board continues that theme.
“It makes the transition and support between primary school, high school and college as seamless as possible and therefore gives pupils an even greater chance of fulfilling their potential.”