Woodland Academy Trust – Igniting the Spark of Inclusive and Ambitious Education in Kent and Bexley
Woodland Academy Trust is a respected and forward-thinking multi-academy trust located in Erith, Kent, serving primary education across Bexley and Kent. Established in 2011, the Trust has earned recognition for its unwavering commitment to inclusion, innovation, and excellence in education. Its motto — “Ignite the spark, reveal the champion” — captures the Trust’s philosophy of nurturing potential, building character, and empowering every learner to achieve success.
Operating within the Education Management sector, Woodland Academy Trust oversees a family of five primary schools. Each school shares a unified mission: to provide high-quality learning experiences that enable children to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. With over 200 employees and a growing reputation for educational innovation, the Trust stands as a beacon of progressive teaching and learning in South-East England.
The Foundation and Vision of Woodland Academy Trust
Founded in September 2011, Woodland Academy Trust was created with a clear and purposeful vision — to build a learning community that values diversity, inclusion, and ambition. The Trust’s origins lie in a shared belief among educators and community leaders that collaboration and shared values can transform local education standards. Over the years, it has evolved into a dynamic and supportive organisation, recognised for its integrity, professionalism, and child-centred approach.
The Trust is headquartered at Northumberland Heath Primary School, Wheelock Close, Erith, Kent, DA8 1JE, where its central team works collaboratively to support the network of schools. Through a culture of shared learning and mutual respect, Woodland Academy Trust strives to empower teachers, staff, and students alike to grow together.
Our Mission and Core Values
At the heart of Woodland Academy Trust lies a commitment to inclusivity and ambition. Its mission statement, “Ignite the spark, reveal the champion,” reflects a deep belief that every child possesses the potential to succeed. The Trust’s culture is built upon several core values:
-
Inclusivity: Ensuring that every child, regardless of background or ability, receives equal opportunities to learn and flourish.
-
Ambition: Inspiring pupils to aim high and strive for excellence in all areas of learning.
-
Integrity: Building a culture of trust and accountability across all schools.
-
Partnership: Strengthening ties with parents, local communities, and educational partners to enhance shared growth.
These guiding principles shape the daily work of staff and underpin every decision taken at both the classroom and leadership level.
Woodland Academy Trust – Schools and Community
Woodland Academy Trust currently manages five primary schools across Bexley and Kent, each embodying the Trust’s inclusive ethos. These schools include:
-
Northumberland Heath Primary School – the Trust’s founding and administrative base in Erith, Kent.
-
Peareswood Primary School – known for its creative curriculum and community engagement.
-
Knockhall Primary School – promoting curiosity and resilience in learners.
-
Willow Bank Primary School – fostering innovation through digital learning.
-
Lime Wood Primary School – one of the Trust’s newer additions, designed with a strong environmental and wellbeing focus.
Each school works in partnership with the others, sharing expertise, training, and leadership resources. This collaborative model ensures consistency in standards, curriculum development, and child-centred outcomes.
Leadership and Governance
Woodland Academy Trust operates under the guidance of a skilled and diverse leadership team. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Nav Sanghara, plays a key role in driving the Trust’s strategic direction. Under her leadership, the Trust continues to expand its focus on equality, digital transformation, and teacher development.
The Board of Trustees, comprising experienced educators and professionals, provides oversight and accountability. This governance structure ensures that decisions remain aligned with the Trust’s mission and uphold the highest standards of transparency and compliance.
Woodland Academy Trust’s Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
Woodland Academy Trust is proud to be recognised as a Disability Confident Committed organisation. This distinction reflects its dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion — ensuring that all individuals, including those with disabilities, are valued for their contributions.
The Trust believes that a diverse workforce strengthens the educational experience for everyone. Staff are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives, fostering an environment that celebrates difference while promoting equality and opportunity for all.
Innovation and Technology – Apple Technology in the Classroom
One of the Trust’s standout specialties is its forward-looking use of Apple Technology in the classroom. Woodland Academy Trust has introduced a 1:1 iPad learning programme, ensuring that technology becomes a natural part of the learning process. This initiative enhances engagement, creativity, and accessibility for pupils across all schools.
Teachers integrate digital tools to create interactive lessons, allowing students to explore, research, and present ideas in new ways. The programme also supports Universal Design for Learning (UDL), enabling multiple forms of expression and ensuring that all learners can demonstrate their understanding effectively. This modern approach to education positions the Trust as a leader in digital inclusion and pedagogical innovation.
Ethical Education and Community Partnerships
Woodland Academy Trust’s strength lies not only in its academic excellence but also in its commitment to ethical education. The Trust prioritises character development, empathy, and respect for others. It actively nurtures partnerships with parents, local authorities, and community organisations to ensure that every child receives holistic support.
Community engagement activities, charity events, and local collaborations help children understand their social responsibilities and contribute positively to their surroundings. This sense of belonging and purpose encourages students to grow into responsible, confident citizens.
Professional Growth and Staff Development
Recognising that outstanding teaching underpins great schools, Woodland Academy Trust places significant emphasis on professional growth. Staff receive continuous training, mentoring, and development opportunities designed to enhance their skills and confidence.
Leadership pathways within the Trust encourage staff to progress professionally while remaining rooted in classroom practice. Collaborative networks allow teachers to share best practice across schools, strengthening consistency and quality throughout the Trust.
Achievements and Recognition
Since its establishment, Woodland Academy Trust has made notable progress in raising standards across its schools. Many of its member schools have achieved positive Ofsted ratings, highlighting improvements in teaching quality, curriculum design, and pupil outcomes.
The Trust’s innovative approach to technology integration has also been featured in national education publications and case studies. Its use of digital tools to enhance learning and reduce inequality has been widely praised as an example of effective educational leadership in the modern age.
Contact Information
For anyone wishing to learn more or to explore opportunities within the Trust, the contact details are as follows:
Registered Office: Northumberland Heath Primary School, Wheelock Close, Erith, Kent, DA8 1JE
Telephone: +44 1322 334 638
Email: info@watschools.org.uk
Website: www.woodlandacademytrust.co.uk
Conclusion – Woodland Academy Trust’s Lasting Impact
Woodland Academy Trust represents the best of modern British primary education — inclusive, ambitious, and future-focused. Since 2011, it has provided thousands of children with a learning environment that values individuality, creativity, and resilience. By embracing digital innovation, fostering community partnerships, and prioritising equality, the Trust has established itself as a leader in educational excellence within Kent and Bexley.
With its guiding belief to “ignite the spark, reveal the champion,” Woodland Academy Trust continues to shape the future of education — one child, one teacher, and one school at a time.
