Connect Multi Academy Trust Marks New Era with Celebration Event Showcasing Talent, Partnership, and Purpose

Connect Multi Academy Trust marked a major milestone last week with a celebration event bringing together pupils, staff, leaders, and partners from across its eight schools. The event, held in honour of the Trust’s recent rebrand from New College Durham Academies Trust to Connect, showcased the unity, ambition, and shared identity that underpin this new chapter.

The celebration featured a series of outstanding performances from students across the Trust, highlighting the creativity, confidence, and talent flourishing within Connect’s schools. From musical pieces to dramatic performances, pupils took centre stage and embodied the spirit of collaboration and opportunity that the new identity represents.

Guests also heard from key figures who have shaped the Trust’s journey.
The Chair of the Trust, Paul Bradley, delivered a speech reflecting on the evolution of the organisation and the importance of a shared vision across all schools. This was followed by a speech from Linda Rodham, Chief Executive Officer of Connect Multi Academy Trust, who spoke about the significance of the rebrand and the Trust’s commitment to strengthening connections between schools, phases, and communities.

The event also welcomed the Chief Executive of New College Durham, Andy Broadbent, who reflected on the long‑standing partnership and expressed pride in the Trust’s growth, resilience, and future direction. Their continued support remains an important part of Connect’s story, and the celebration served as a moment of gratitude and shared achievement.

The rebrand to Connect symbolises the Trust’s evolution into a confident, collaborative organisation with a clear mission: to bring education together, create shared opportunities, and ensure every child benefits from the collective strength of the Trust. This vision was brought to life throughout the event, with students, staff, and leaders demonstrating what it means to be part of a community built on partnership and ambition.

The celebration event not only marked the launch of a new identity but also reaffirmed the Trust’s purpose: connecting people, places, and opportunities to create a brighter future for all.

Launch Event