Celebrating 10 years of Improving Life Chances for Local Children
On the evening of the 2nd May 2025, Aletheia Academies Trust marked its 10 year anniversary with a heartfelt celebration at Rochester Cathedral that brought together staff, students, governors, and community members. Held in a spirit of gratitude and unity, the event not only commemorated a decade of educational excellence but also looked forward to the future with renewed purpose.
The celebration began with music from the talented Tom Thrush from Saint George’s C of E School, creating a reflective atmosphere as guests gathered. The formal proceedings opened with a warm welcome and an opening prayer from The Very Rev'd Dr Philip Hesketh, Dean of Rochester Cathedral, grounding the event in the Trust’s Christian ethos.
The Trust CEO Stephen Carey delivered a powerful message about the Trust’s vision, reflecting on the journey of the last ten years while emphasising the continued commitment to nurturing every child’s potential. This was beautifully followed by a performance of “Stand By Me” by the Trust Primary Choir a musical tribute to the unity that has defined Aletheia's journey.
A particularly moving segment featured "Postcards from our Journey". This were personal reflections shared by Sue Tunnicliffe (the first full-time member of staff), Bill Johnson (Trustee), and Jane Rolfe (Stone St Mary's Headteacher). Their stories brought to life the evolution of the Trust and our collective purpose whilst honouring the challenges and the milestones achieved by its schools and staff.
The Trust Secondary Choir, consisting of Saint Georges and Gravesend Grammar School, followed with a brilliant rendition of “Lean on Me,” reinforcing the message of mutual support and resilience that has sustained the Trust’s community. A reflective talk titled "What is Community?" was given by Louisa Parrales, Chaplain at Saint George’s School, inviting everyone to consider the deeper meaning of togetherness in education and what it feels like to be the community that is our Trust.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Outstanding Service Awards, recognising individuals whose unwavering dedication has been instrumental in the success of the individual schools. Their service stands as a testament to the culture of excellence fostered within Aletheia.
Mark Till, Chair of Trustees, shared his roots within the Schools of Aletheia and spoke about how it is the community that laid the foundations of the Trust we know today. He highlighted how this strong foundation has enabled us to grow with integrity, care, vision, and determination, ultimately creating the positive impact we see in improving life chances for local children.
This was followed by a joyful performance of “Try Everything” by the Trust Primary Choir, a fitting anthem of aspiration and resilience.
Father Michael Payne offered a heartfelt prayer, and the event closed with a final blessing by
The Very Rev'd Dr Philip Hesketh. These concluding moments reinforced the Trust’s values of faith, hope, and service.
The 10 year celebration of Aletheia Academies Trust was more than an anniversary; it was a living testament to what can be achieved when vision, dedication, and community come together. As the Trust enters its second decade, it does so with a strong foundation and a shared commitment to continue transforming lives through education.
Here’s to the next 10 years and beyond.