Ernest Cookson School joins Co-op Academies Trust 

Co-op Academies Trust has welcomed Ernest Cookson School in Liverpool to its growing network of schools, expanding its presence across Merseyside and the North of England.

The specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) school, which supports some of the region’s most vulnerable young boys, is now officially known as Co-op Academy Rathbone following its transfer this week.

Co-op Academies Trust said the move marks a “significant step in the school’s journey to securing a long-term, sustainable future while continuing to serve its local community”.

Sean Jones, head of School at Co-op Academy Rathbone, said: “Joining Co-op Academies Trust marks an exciting new chapter for our school. We’re proud to become part of a values-driven trust that shares our commitment to inclusion, care and high aspirations for every pupil.

“This partnership will bring new opportunities and long-term stability, ensuring we continue to provide the best possible support for our students, families and wider community.”

Dr Chris Tomlinson, CEO of Co-op Academies Trust, added: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome Co-op Academy Rathbone into our Trust. This school plays a vital role in the lives of its pupils and we look forward to supporting its continued development.

“We believe in clusters of local schools supporting one another and this is a powerful example of that vision, making it a perfect fit with our co-operative values.”

Co-op Academy Rathbone has become the 38th academy to join Co-op Academies Trust, a growing Multi Academy Trust sponsored by the Co-op Group. 

The trust supports primary, secondary, special schools and a college across Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Staffordshire and Merseyside.