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Reinvesting in pupils - How TSfE Income is transforming resources for learners

While Thinking Solutions for Education (TSfE) provides sector-leading consultancy to schools across the country, its most powerful impact is seen within the classrooms, corridors, and playgrounds of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT). TSfE’s income doesn’t just support strategic decision-making; it directly enhances the day-to-day experience of over 16,500 pupils by funding improvements to their learning environments.

Over the past year, TSfE generated more than £290,000 in income, with over £8,000 in net profit reinvested into pupil-centred projects across TSAT schools. These include:

  • The creation of a new sensory garden at Penbridge School (Portsmouth), offering a calming space for neurodiverse and anxious learners to self-regulate.

  • Refurbishment of classrooms at The Victory Academy (Chatham), providing additional funding to support the building developments of a new Specialist Resource Provision and Sixth Form centre to provide the Chatham community with better resource for pupils.

  • Playground improvements at Furzeham Primary and Nursery School (Torbay), including inclusive play equipment that allows all pupils to take part in active play.

These enhancements are only possible thanks to the income generated through TSfE’s work with schools and trusts across the South East, South, and South West of England.

"A lace to regroup and recharge"

"Our new sensory garden is my favourite place in school. It helps me when I feel overwhelmed. I go there, listen to the wind chimes, and then I feel ready to go back and learn again,"

Emily, a Year 5 pupil at Penbridge School.

"Support that transforms learning environments"

“TSfE’s work has given us more than just operational support—it’s given our pupils real, tangible benefits.

"The sensory garden, the new classroom tech, the playground enhancements—these changes help us deliver the best possible education, and they wouldn't have been possible otherwise,”

Anna Webb, Headteacher at Penbridge School.

TSfE’s model proves that commercial income, when guided by values and purpose, can become a powerful force for good in education. By sharing trusted solutions with the wider sector and returning the benefits to its own learners, TSfE shows what’s possible when schools lead with heart and strategy in equal measure.

As it continues to grow, TSfE remains focused on its mission: to “Transform Life Chances”—not only through expert consultancy but through meaningful reinvestment into the lives and futures of students.

Lettings across TSAT reach £1 million milestone with profits planned to support schools’ projects

A remarkable £1 million has been raised by Thinking Lettings, the trading subsidiary of Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT), with profits planned to be spent on supporting schools and having a positive impact on thousands of pupils.

By opening school facilities for private hire outside of the school day, money can be raised and then put to good use across our regions.

The lettings which have supported this incredible achievement include the hire of sports pitches for local football teams, evening lets of school halls for community classes, and classroom space for training and development opportunities.

The money raised by Thinking Lettings is vital to support the good work of our schools in their mission to Transform Life Chances; the profits are directly reinvested into our schools across the South East, South, and South West of England where there is most need.

Successful projects which have been completed from the profits raised include brand-new playgrounds, and the developments of a new sensory garden, these funds have helped create inspiring and inclusive spaces that make education more memorable and engaging for young learners.

"£1 million raised – and that’s just the start!"

Lee Miller MBE, Deputy Chief Executive at Thinking Schools Academy Trust

“Reaching £1 million in school hire revenue is a fantastic achievement for our team, but the real success lies in the impact this funding has had on our schools and students.

“Schools are at the heart of our communities, and by maximising the use of their facilities, they are not only creating additional funding streams but also making stronger community connections.

“This milestone is just the beginning, and we are excited to continue supporting schools in their mission to provide outstanding education for all.”

As well as offering lettings, some sites across our regions also benefit from Thinking Fitness gyms, each of which is committed not only to providing a high-quality health and fitness experience but also to reinvesting approximately £300k of income and giving schools access to high-quality gym equipment at no cost.

Across the sector, schools continue to find sustainable ways to generate additional income, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to the best resources and experiences.

By hiring out facilities, forming local partnerships, and embracing new funding opportunities, Thinking Schools Academy Trust are taking control of their financial future. These initiatives have helped bridge gaps in traditional funding, providing students with state-of-the-art classrooms, modern technology, and enrichment activities that support their learning journey.

Thinking Lettings remains committed to expanding their lettings programme, ensuring schools and students benefit from these initiatives to truly Transform Life Chances. Thank you to school leaders and their teams for their support in reaching this milestone.

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