Over the past month, the Trust has been working closely with the Executive Headteacher and Governors of John Rankin Schools to explore how the school could benefit from joining Maiden Erlegh Trust. As part of this process, the Trust has been carrying out detailed conversations and assessments to understand the specific challenges and opportunities at John Rankin Junior Schools and how the Trust's support and expertise could best be applied to help the school strengthen provision and move forward positively. 

The Department for Education has confirmed that John Rankin Junior School must join a multi-academy trust, and because both the Infant school and Junior school share leadership and governance, the Governing Body believes the Infant and Nursery School should join the same trust, to enable the community can move forward together.

To date discussions have been constructive and productive. A formal consultation with parents, staff and stakeholders will run from 23 June to 11 July 2025 to decide whether the John Rankin Infant School and Nursery should also join the Maiden Erlegh Trust.

If the proposals proceed as anticipated, John Rankin Schools will formally join Maiden Erlegh Trust later this year. 

Jon Peck, Chief Executive Officer of Maiden Erlegh Trust, said: 

"This marks an important opportunity for John Rankin Schools and Maiden Erlegh Trust. By working together, we aim to build on existing strengths and provide additional leadership, capacity and expertise to support the schools' continued development. Our experience supporting schools through similar transitions shows the value of strong partnership and tailored support in securing sustained success for pupils, staff and the wider school community." 

Maiden Erlegh Trust has previously supported other schools at points of significant challenge, including Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge (formerly Chiltern Edge School), Hamilton School (formerly Phoenix College), and Great Hollands Primary School. Through partnership working, strong leadership and targeted support, these schools have made sustained improvements and are now delivering high-quality education to their communities. 

Further information about the consultation process will be published on Monday 23 June and shared directly with parents, carers, staff and stakeholders.