A group of schools across Teesside and County Durham have welcomed 22 new staff during a special event.

Ad Astra Academy Trust, which has ten primary schools under its umbrella, is one of the area’s biggest employers with 525 members of staff.

The Trust was formed in 2015 and over the last eleven years has grown and now provides education for over 3,500 pupils.

The event was held at Hartlepool’s Queens Meadow Business Park for staff who have joined the Trust in the last year.

Speaking to staff at the event, Andy Brown, OBE, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ad Astra said: “It gives me great pleasure to formally welcome you to our Trust.

“We are one big family and all work together to help one another. If we don’t know the answer to something we will find it somewhere across the Trust.”

Mr Brown went on to say that he is a responsive and reflective leader and isn’t afraid to change his mind after listening to headteachers and other staff.

He also said that staff well-being is paramount and a top priority in all schools.

He added: “As a Trust we continue to evolve, always exploring new ways of working to ensure that we do the very best for our children,”

Lauren Bramley, who has just started work as a teaching assistant at Hartlepool’s Brougham Primary School, said: “I previously worked in retail but now that my four children (aged 7 to 17) are growing up I was ready to return to work.

“After a period working at Brougham as a supply teaching assistant, I was encouraged to apply for a permanent position, and I am absolutely loving it. Everyone at the school is so friendly and supportive.”

Karen Anderson, who has worked for over two decades in early years education has just been appointed Assistant Headteacher (Early Years & Key Stage 1) at Middlesbrough’s Ayresome Primary School.

She said: “When I was studying, I spent two years on placement at Ayresome Primary School and when the Assistant Headteacher opportunity became available I didn’t hesitate.

“I knew straightaway it was right for me because of the previous connection and Ayresome has always been a school that’s remained close to my heart.

“I am thoroughly enjoying my new role; there’s fantastic support from the senior leadership team and I am loving every minute of it.”

The primary schools within Ad Astra Academy Trust are Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool, Crooksbarn and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside Academy in Middlesbrough and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in County Durham.

Picture Caption – Andy Brown OBE (centre left) is pictured with Ad Astra Academy Trust’s new starters.

21 September 2026