Oasis Community Learning and Big Education confirm trust merger from September 2026

We are pleased to share that the Department for Education has approved our plans for Oasis Community Learning and Big Education Trust to merge, with effect from 1 September 2026.

This marks an exciting moment for both organisations. For many years, Oasis and Big Education have shared a deep commitment to a holistic model of education, one that places equal value on academic achievement, character development, and the strength of the communities we serve. This merger allows us to bring together two nationally recognised trusts around that shared purpose.

At Oasis, we believe that every child should feel a strong sense of belonging, build confidence as an individual, and leave school equipped not only with knowledge, but with the character and capabilities needed to lead a fulfilled life. Big Education’s work aligns closely with this vision. Their distinctive, evidence‑informed approach, including widely recognised practice in oracy, assessment and the thoughtful use of artificial intelligence, complements our own holistic, community‑centred model.

As one of England’s largest and most respected multi‑academy trusts, Oasis has long been committed to transforming communities through education, wrap‑around support and strong local partnerships. Our 56 academies sit within a community hub model that connects families, neighbourhoods and local partners to wider initiatives that promote stability and opportunity.

By coming together, we will be able to combine these complementary strengths, embedding proven practice across a larger network, extending professional development for staff, and creating the conditions to scale approaches that are already delivering positive impact. This partnership will amplify the contribution Oasis has made for more than four decades across education, housing, health and community development.

Big Education’s three schools: School 21, School 360 and Surrey Square Primary, will retain their strong identities, leadership and ethos. At the same time, the merger will strengthen our collective capacity and capability, enabling greater support for pupils, families and staff across all our communities.

Our CEO, John Barneby says: "Oasis has always been clear that education sits within a wider set of relationships; with families, communities and the bright future young people go on to lead. Big Education brings an exceptional, evidence-informed approach to that work, built over many years through their schools and programmes. Bringing our organisations together strengthens what we can offer to every student, in every community we serve."

Liz Robinson, Chief Executive of Big Education Trust: "This merger enables us to grow and approach to education that we know makes a real difference, one that goes beyond academic outcomes and focuses on the whole child. Our model has been developed as tested through our schools and professional programmes, and the evidence of its impact is clear. Joining with Oasis gives us the opportunity to scale that work, while protecting what makes it distinctive.

We are grateful to all staff and stakeholders who took part in the consultation process. Your feedback has shaped our approach and will continue to play an important role as we prepare for the next phase of our shared journey.

We look forward to keeping our communities updated as we move towards September 2026.