Hillingdon Council is set to transfer St Bernadette Catholic Primary School to The Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust (DoWAT), a move aimed at facilitating the school's academisation. The report pack, available on the council's website, states that St Bernadette Catholic Primary School, a Voluntary Aided (VA) institution, wishes to academise and join DoWAT. The decision was made during a recent Hillingdon Council Cabinet meeting.
Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, and Councillor Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, presented the proposal, highlighting the benefits of the transfer for the school and its students.
The Cabinet approved the transfer of the freehold of the land and building currently occupied by the nursery to the Diocese for £1. Additionally, a 125-year lease on standard terms will be granted for the surrounding land to support the school's transition into the academy trust. This lease ensures that should the school decide to repurpose the land in the future, the council would have further input.
Councillor O'Brien clarified that the academy conversion date has been moved to 1 November, correcting an earlier report that stated 1 October.
This transfer aligns with standard procedures for schools transitioning into academy trusts. The move is intended to provide St Bernadette Catholic Primary School with greater autonomy and resources to enhance its educational offerings.
The decision was made with the understanding that the school's values and Catholic ethos will be maintained under the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust. The transfer is expected to provide long-term stability and support for the school, its students, and the wider community.
At the meeting, Councillor Ian Edwards, Leader of the Council, confirmed that the recommendations were agreed upon, paving the way for the transfer to proceed.
