News and Events
Enable Trust identified as preferred Trust for Three Gloucestershire Specialist Schools
7 July 2026
Enable Trust is pleased to confirm that it is in discussions with the Department for Education (DfE) and SAND Academy Trust regarding the potential transfer of three specialist schools into the Trust: Belmont School, Battledown School and Sladewood Academy.
Earlier this year, SAND Academy Trust announced that it could no longer continue as a standalone organisation and that its eight schools would transfer to other academy trusts. As part of this rebrokerage process, the DfE has identified Enable Trust as its preferred trust for these three schools.
The discussions are currently at an early stage, and no final decisions have been made. Over the coming months, Enable Trust will work closely with stakeholders from SAND Academy Trust and the schools to undertake a thorough assessment of the proposal and determine whether it is in the best interests of pupils, staff and local communities.
Enable Trust has a strong track record of supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and remains committed to delivering high-quality education and outcomes across all its schools. Any future growth will be carefully considered to ensure it aligns with the Trust’s values, strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.
Should the transfer proceed, it would provide opportunities for greater collaboration, the sharing of expertise and the further strengthening of our collective impact across the Enable Trust and wider education sector. As always, our priority will be to continue supporting our existing schools while ensuring any growth is sustainable and beneficial for all.
Andrew Buckton, CEO of Enable Trust, said:
“We are pleased to have been identified by the Department for Education as the preferred trust for Belmont School, Battledown School and Sladewood Academy. While discussions remain at an early stage, we look forward to working closely with colleagues, and stakeholders to explore whether joining Enable Trust would provide the best possible future for these schools and their communities.”
Enable Trust and Pegasus School
15 June 2026
Message from Sue Fairhurst, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Enable Trust
The South Gloucestershire and Stroud Academy Trust Board (SGS) has been carefully considering the future for its schools and evaluating its options.
Following extensive discussions with stakeholders and officers at the Department for Education, the SGS Board of Trustees have agreed that it is in the best interests of the pupils and staff at Pegasus School to transfer to Enable Trust.
Enable Trust is a specialist trust (special schools and alternative provision) locally, with expertise in supporting children with a variety of complex needs.
Pegasus School has been working closely with Enable Trust since May 2025.
The transfer is subject to detailed due diligence including a period of engagement with all stakeholders and final approval from the Department for Education.
It is anticipated, subject to the necessary due diligence and agreements, that Pegasus school will transfer to Enable by 1 December 2026.