Welcome to Yorkshire Learning Trust

Written By Engaging Education

We are delighted to share the exciting news that the Department for Education has officially approved the merger of South York Multi Academy Trust and The STAR Multi Academy Trust, marking the official launch of Yorkshire Learning Trust (YLT).  

Our new Trust brings together: 

  • 17 schools across primary and secondary phases 

  • Approximately 7,000 students 

  • A committed team of around 1,000 staff 

This merger is about more than numbers. It’s about ambition, collaboration, and a shared commitment to delivering the very best for every child, every school, and every community we serve. 

Vision & Values

Our new identity as Yorkshire Learning Trust draws from our legacy organisations' strong foundations and values. At our heart, we remain committed to: 

  • Inclusive, high-quality education 

  • Aspirational outcomes for every learner 

  • Integrity in our relationships and decision-making 

A key driver as we transition to YLT is belonging. We want every young person, every staff member, and every stakeholder to feel connected, both to their local school community and a wider, supportive Trust family. 

Leadership & Governance

To ensure continuity and strength, our leadership structure combines the expertise from both legacy Trusts: 

  • CEO – Ian Yapp, former CEO of STAR 

  • Director of Education – Steve Lewis, former CEO of SYMAT 

  • Chief Finance Officer (CFO) – Melissa Boyes, former CFOO of STAR 

  • Chief Operations Officer (COO) – Sam Bradford, former CFO of SYMAT 

Our Members and Trustees will also reflect the blend of existing experience and expertise from across both Trusts. This ensures consistent, transparent oversight as we evolve together. 

What This Means for Schools

Each of our 17 schools will remain: 

  • Individual in identity, ethos and community connections 

  • Equal in partnership, with a clear voice within YLT 

We will prioritise collaboration and shared accountability to drive school improvement and deliver the best outcomes for our students. Strategic planning will now move at pace as we finalise operational structures, policies, and communication channels. 

This is just the beginning. Yorkshire Learning Trust will continue to grow, learn and lead, always with our children’s futures at the heart of every decision.

Engaging Education