Our Trust held it’s second Archway Together event this month, bringing together hundreds of pupils and students from across our 11 academies and their families for an unforgettable evening that celebrated not only their extraordinary talent, but also 320 years of Archway Learning Trust’s history.
Hosted at the Albert Hall in Nottingham, the event was far more than a showcase, it was a powerful, student-led telling of our story. Through music, drama, dance and art, young people from across our academies brought to life the journey of our Trust, expressing pride in where we began, confidence in where we are today, and bold ambition for the future we are building together.
From the opening moments, as a combined choir of 300 voices filled the hall, there was a tangible sense of something special. Each performance became part of a wider narrative, with students embodying the values and vision that have shaped Archway for over three centuries. Our origins, beginning in 1706 beneath the stone archway of St Mary’s Church in Nottingham were reflected in the spirit of opportunity and inclusion evident on stage throughout the evening.
The event unfolded as a celebration of identity and belonging. Artistic performances and a striking exhibition of student artwork demonstrated not only creativity, but a deep connection to our shared purpose. Every piece told a story of growth, of community, and of the limitless potential within our young people.
What stood out most was the overwhelming sense of unity. Students supported and uplifted one another, proudly representing their academies while coming together as one Trust. In that space, our values of excellence, inclusion and collaboration were not just visible they were truly lived.
As we mark 320 years of education, Archway Together served as a powerful reminder that
our founding principle remains unchanged: that every child deserves opportunity, dignity and the chance to learn. That belief continues to guide us today and inspire the future we are shaping.
The evening was not only a celebration of our history, but a confident expression of what lies ahead, a future driven by the voices, talents and aspirations of our students, who told our story with pride and made it their own.