Forward as One CE MAT and Wise Owl Trust Confirm Plans to Merge
Forward as One CE Multi-Academy Trust and Wise Owl Trust have confirmed plans to merge, creating a single, larger multi-academy trust to deliver outstanding education and strengthen opportunities for pupils across Greater Manchester.
Following the retirement of Karen Bramwell OBE, the highly respected former CEO of Forward as One CE MAT, the merger marks an exciting new chapter under the Forward as One umbrella, bringing together two successful trusts, both committed to educational excellence, inclusion and community.
The merger will combine the strengths of the two highly successful trusts, enabling greater collaboration, enhanced professional development opportunities for staff and improved educational outcomes for pupils.
The merged trusts will consist of approximately 5,800 pupils across 22 schools, creating a stronger network of school leaders and professionals who will work together to improve outcomes and broaden opportunities for young people.
Reflecting on her time with the Forward as One Trust, former CEO Karen Bramwell OBE shared:
“It has been an absolute privilege to lead the Forward as One CE Trust and to work as a system leader within the North West. I am delighted that both Trust Boards have come together to create this stronger entity.
Both trusts share similar values and aspirations; coming together as One Team means the trust, with Sophie at the helm, is in a strong place to achieve its shared One Mission for our children and our One Family. I wish them every blessing.”
Sophie Murfin, CEO of Wise Owl Trust, said:
“There is so much to look forward to this year. I want us to continue building on the many strengths already across Forward as One, while being ambitious about what we can achieve together for our children, our families and each other.
For me, our people really do make the difference. I want us to continue building a culture where people feel valued, supported, able to contribute and proud to belong, and where we never lose sight of why we are here: our children.
I’m really looking forward to working alongside [the Forward as One family] and to everything that lies ahead as One Team, One Mission and One Family.”
Peter Bond, Chair of Trustees at Forward as One CE MAT, said:
“While we are sad to see Karen leave, we are delighted to share that the Department for Education has approved Sophie Murfin, currently Chief Executive Officer of Wise Owl Trust, to take on the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer of Forward as One from 1st September 2026, alongside her substantive role at Wise Owl Trust.
Sophie will become the substantive Chief Executive Officer of Forward as One once the five Wise Owl Trust schools transfer to the Trust.
The Trustees are confident that, under Sophie’s strong leadership, and with the continued dedication and commitment of our staff, governors, school leaders and central team, Forward as One will continue to improve, grow and flourish.”
The merger process is expected to be completed by November 2026, subject to the necessary approvals. Throughout the transition, both trusts will work closely with the wider school communities to ensure a smooth and successful integration.
About Forward as One CE MAT
Forward as One CE MAT was first founded in 2012 at St Paul’s CE Primary School, Astley Bridge and has since grown to 17 Church of England and Community schools across Greater Manchester. The trust consists of 3832 children, 2610 families, 611 members of staff and 126 governors and prides itself on having the highest staff and pupil engagement scores nationally.
About Wise Owl Trust
Wise Owl Trust is an ambitious and inclusive MAT, comprising five schools in the heart of East Manchester. The trust is driven by a clear mission to support every child, every family and every community.
Wellbeing is at the heart of the trust’s approach to education, with 96% of staff sharing that they are proud to be part of Wise Owl Trust.