Our Adventure Began with a Bold Idea

At QUEST Trust, our journey began with a bold idea: to build a family of schools united by a shared purpose—to give every child the opportunity to thrive, grow, and succeed. Since our formation in 2014, we've continued to evolve, remaining deeply rooted in our Christian ethos and driven by a commitment to educational excellence. 

2014–2015: A New Beginning 

On 11 November 2014, QUEST Trust was officially incorporated as a multi-academy trust (MAT). By the start of 2015, four founding schools came together under our umbrella— St. Peter’s C. of E. Primary School (Hindley), Hindley Green Community Primary School, St. John’s C. of E. Primary School (Hindley Green), and St. John’s C. of E. Primary School (Abram) —marking the beginning of a collaborative and values-driven journey. 

2020: Growing into Secondary Education 

A major step in our growth came on 1 August 2020, when UTC Bolton joined QUEST—becoming our first secondary and UTC school. This expansion deepened our impact, allowing us to support learners from early years through to employment. 

2022–2023: Leadership for the Future 

January 2022 welcomed Dr Crispin Alexander Pailing as Chair of Trustees, followed by a period of strategic development and leadership renewal. In September 2023, Marc Doyle was appointed as CEO and Accounting Officer, ushering in a refreshed direction, alongside newly appointed trustees and executive leaders. 

Ofsted Inspections 2023-2024 

Ofsted inspections in early 2023 at Hindley Green Community Primary School, St. John’s C. of E. Primary School (Hindley Green) and St. John’s C. of E. Primary School (Abram) provided affirmation of our schools’ progress and laid the foundation for ongoing improvement and accountability. 

In 2024, St. Peter’s C. of E. Primary School and the University Collegiate School in Bolton were inspected by Ofsted. All 5 settings during this period were rated as ‘Good’. 

Today and Beyond 

Today, QUEST Trust proudly serves five academies—four primary and one extended UTC—delivering education that’s not only high-quality but also deeply connected to community and faith. We continue to grow, support, and inspire, with a strategy focused on long-term success and sustainability. 

Every step of our evolution has been shaped by compassion, courage, and collaboration. As we look forward to the future, we remain committed to unlocking potential, nurturing talent, and living out our values in every classroom, corridor, and community we serve.