AN academy trust which manages a school in Burnham has won a prestigious award for its work supporting communities.

Ormiston Academies Trust, which sponsors Ormiston Rivers Academy has won the community trust of the year award at the MAT Excellence Awards.

The trust educates 30,000 pupils in more than 40 schools and has developed nine youth social action projects called ‘#WeWill’, with the support of the National Student Council.

The themes of the projects are based on supporting the academy and community with physical health and mental wellbeing, community cohesion, arts and culture, the local environment, and inclusion, diversity and equality.

Nick Hudson, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the Community Trust of the Year accolade, which means a lot to all of us because community is at the heart of everything we do here at OAT.

“I am so proud of the incredible work that has taken place across each and every one of our academies, which is a testament to the dedication of both students and staff.

“I am also very grateful to all of those partners who have played a vital role in facilitating these initiatives, which has made them possible.”