A YORK-BASED academy trust has grown to encompass seven schools with the addition of it's newest recruit.

Baldersby St James CE Primary near Thirsk is the latest school to join the Hope Learning Trust, York which now Manor CE Academy, Poppleton Ousebank, Burton Green, Barlby High, Forest of Galtres and Vale of York Academy - formerly Canon Lee.

Baldersby St James converted to academy status on September 1 and although the pupils, staff and parents will see little difference on a day-to-day basis, the school will see huge benefits behind the scenes.

Hope’s central team will manage many of the back-office business functions supporting the school and sharing staffing and resources across the Trust.

There will also be a small change to the name, as it becomes Baldersby St James Church of England Primary School.

The school, located in the village of Baldersby St James midway between Thirsk and Ripon, was built in the late 1800s at the same time as the village church, with which it still has very strong connections.

Head teacher, Nigel Stewart, said “We are delighted to be part of this growing and successful multi-academy trust.

"We have been working alongside Hope for some time now and for us, the decision to join the Hope family was easy.

"As a school with a Church of England foundation, our ethos and values dovetail perfectly with Hope’s beliefs and commitments.

“We’re excited about our future within the Trust and are looking forward to the opportunities that belonging to Hope brings.”

Hope’s CEO, Brian Crosby, said: “The school has been part of the community for over 160 years and we are committed to ensuring that the school retains its heritage and identity.

"All of our schools have their own unique identities and these differences will continue to be celebrated, but joining the Hope Learning Trust provides a mutual benefit of sharing resources and offering more choice and greater opportunities for the children and staff.

“We are delighted to welcome Baldersby St James to the Trust.”