Parents have raised concerns following reports that a historic Stroud school could be set for a name change, with some fearing the move would erase part of the school’s long-standing identity and heritage.
Formal consultation is set to begin on proposals for four schools within Cotswold Beacon Academy Trust (CBAT), Marling School, Berkeley Primary School, Callowell Primary School, and Cam Woodfield Junior School, to join Lift Schools, a national multi-academy trust.
Parents connected to Marling School have contacted Stroud Times to voice concerns over a proposed name change following a recent academy trust merger. One parent said: “Lift Schools academy trust recently merged with CBAT academy trust and is now the trust that owns Marling School. As part of the merger, they are proposing to rename Marling School to Lift Marling. This name change is obviously very contentious and parents including myself are deeply concerned about it. There’s a petition with more than 400 signatures in the 48 hours the petition has been live.”
To sign the petition, click HERE
In Autumn 2024, CBAT trustees, in discussion with the Department for Education (DfE), undertook a review of the trust’s strategic direction. In April 2025, trustees identified Lift Schools as their preferred partner for a future merger. Since the summer term of 2025, all CBAT schools have been working in formal partnership with Lift Schools, benefiting from strong school improvement support while progressing merger discussions with the DfE.
The formal consultation will run from Thursday 7 May to Friday 22 May 2026. Subject to the outcome of the consultation and approval by the Department for Education, all four schools would formally join Lift Schools in September 2026.
Lift Schools is a national trust led by former headteacher Rebecca Boomer-Clark and is known for its inclusive practice, commitment to localism, and focus on pioneering research and educational excellence.
Duncan Cook, CEO of Cotswold Beacon Academy Trust, said: “As we look ahead, we are confident that joining Lift Schools represents a key next step, formalising our existing partnership. It will provide access to a wider network of expertise, enhanced professional development for staff, and greater opportunities for collaboration, ultimately benefitting our pupils and communities.”
Rebecca Boomer-Clark, CEO of Lift Schools, said: “We are delighted to be working with Cotswold Beacon Academy Trust and look forward to formalising our relationship with Berkeley Primary School, Callowell Primary School, Cam Woodfield Junior School and Marling School as they prepare to join Lift Schools.”
“Each of these schools have clear strengths, dedicated staff and a strong commitment to their pupils and communities. Collaboration sits at the heart of our approach, and we look forward to working closely with school leaders and staff to build on these strengths, support continued improvement, and ensure every pupil can achieve and thrive.”
