I am pleased, on behalf of the staff, students and trustees, to write these few words of welcome and an introduction to Catcote Academy which is a specialist provision providing education for 11–19-year-olds. Catcote Academy is part of Hartlepool Aspire Multi-Academy Trust which is at present made up of Catcote Academy (secondary and Post 16 students) and Catcote Futures (specialist FE college). This is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hartlepool Aspire Trust. The Trust currently operates over seven sites which includes Catcote Academy on Catcote Road, a sixth form provision for red/blue pathway learners on Brierton Lane, a sixth form and employability centre for red pathway students with autism, Catcote Futures on Warren Road, Catcote Metro (retail outlet) in Hartlepool Middleton Grange shopping centre, The Vestry (community coffee shop) in Christ Church Art Gallery and a Caravan situated in Crimdon Dene Holiday Park.