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St Gilbert’s CofE Academy joins LAAT

Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust (LAAT) is delighted to announce that St Gilbert’s Church of England Academy, Stamford will officially join the Trust on 1st November 2025, becoming the 24th school to join the LAAT tribe.

Serving its local community for more than 50 years, St Gilbert’s has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality education within a caring Christian environment. The school’s vision focuses on inspirational teaching that enables all children to flourish as confident and independent learners, a vibrant curriculum that sparks imagination and encourages every child to fulfil their potential, and a loving, Christian school family that values every individual and celebrates their achievements.

Headteacher, Frances Dicker said: “We believe that our pupils should not only grow academically through inspirational teaching but also be nurtured personally and socially to become confident, well-balanced, and happy individuals, ready for the world beyond St Gilbert’s. Joining LAAT is a significant step in our journey, and we’re excited about the new opportunities this partnership will bring for our pupils, staff, and community.”

Ofsted has consistently judged St Gilbert’s as GOOD, praising the school for being a friendly, welcoming place where pupils are well cared for. Inspectors noted that leaders and staff share a vision to inspire pupils with a love of learning, supported by an engaging curriculum, a strong Christian ethos, and excellent pastoral care. While this year’s SIAMS report noted that leaders at all levels ensure that the school vision, “life in all its fullness,” is the main consideration when making decisions, enabling adults and pupils to flourish spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Teachers were commended for encouraging confidence, independence, and curiosity among pupils, ensuring that learning is both purposeful and enjoyable.

Jackie Waters-Dewhurst, CEO of LAAT, added: “We are delighted to welcome St Gilbert’s into the LAAT The school’s vision and ethos are deeply aligned with our own, placing children, care, and creativity at the centre of all they do. Together, I am confident we will continue to strengthen opportunities for every child to learn, grow, and flourish.”

LAAT is dedicated to supporting school improvement and Christian distinctiveness, whilst maintaining each school as a special and unique place in the heart of its unique context. We are committed to transforming lives through education and believe that every child has inherent potential.