Tom Leverage, CEO, Reach South Academy Trust has shared an important milestone in the development of a new school in Gloucestershire. Following a period of consultation and careful consideration, the Trustees have chosen the name for the new school being developed by the Reach South Academy Trust:
Gloucestershire Academy for Inspirational Learning (GAIL)
GAIL is set to open in January 2027 and will provide 200 places for children aged 4-16 with moderate and additional learning difficulties, including autism and speech, language, and communication needs. This project represents a significant investment in inclusive education for the county. We are proud to be part of a transformative initiative that will bring high-quality, specialist provision closer to home for many families across Gloucestershire.
When selecting the name, our Trustees explored a range of options and while each had its appeal, we sought a name that went beyond geography, one that embodied our ethos and educational vision.
Why GAIL?
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Inspirational naming: Only two schools in the UK include “Inspirational” in their title, and we are proud that both are part of the Reach South family.
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Rooted in history: The name Gail originates from the Hebrew Abigail, meaning “my father’s rejoicing” or “one who brings joy,” and from Old English meaning “joyful.” These meanings align closely with the spirit of positivity and aspiration we aim to foster in our school community.
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A connection to SAIL: GAIL complements our existing school, SAIL (Salisbury Academy for Inspirational Learning), extending the Reach South network and strengthening our commitment to inclusive education across the region.
Tom Leverage says “we believe GAIL reflects both our values and our ambition to provide an inspiring, joyful, and inclusive learning environment for every child.”
