Key facts
- The Athena Learning Trust operated six schools in Cornwall and Devon.
- Parents and pupils campaigned against the trust's disciplinary policies.
- The trust's policies were described as 'cruel' and 'authoritarian'.
- The campaigning led to some students becoming ill.
- The Athena Learning Trust will disband and transfer its schools.
The Athena Learning Trust, responsible for six schools across Cornwall and Devon, has announced its decision to disband and transfer the management of its schools. This significant development comes after a sustained campaign by parents and pupils who strongly criticized the trust's disciplinary policies. These policies were frequently described as 'cruel' and 'authoritarian' by those affected. The intense opposition from the school community reportedly led to some students becoming ill due to the stress and pressure associated with the trust's approach. The trust's move to dissolve its operations signifies a victory for the campaigners who advocated for a less stringent and more supportive school environment. The future of the six schools will now depend on the arrangements made for their transfer to new management.