# UK Athena Learning Trust governance scrutiny > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uk-athena-learning-trust-governance-scrutiny > Updated: 2026-10-23T10:34:49.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Concerns regarding the resourcing and behavior policies of Multi Academy Trusts in the United Kingdom gained momentum following criticism of the Athena Learning Trust. Critics, including parents and staff, raised allegations regarding the management of Launceston College in Cornwall, specifically citing the mistreatment of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and disciplinary measures that some compared to prison environments. In response to these issues, a petition was launched seeking a broader government review of systemic oversight for all such trusts. While the Athena Learning Trust initially announced plans to dissolve and transfer its schools to an alternative trust, the UK Department for Education subsequently issued a formal ‘notice to improve’ to the organization. This notice was issued due to breaches of governance requirements and concerns regarding the speed of necessary changes. The trust has since committed to a governance review and is working to address identified deficiencies in leadership, behavior management, and SEND arrangements. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-23: Athena Learning Trust issued formal notice to improve by UK government The UK Department for Education has issued a formal notice to improve to the Athena Learning Trust due to governance breaches and slow implementation of required changes regarding behavior management. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/athena-learning-trust-issued-formal-notice-to-improve-by-uk-government ### 2026-09-23: Petition seeks government review of Multi Academy Trust policies A petition is calling for a UK government review of Multi Academy Trust behaviour and resourcing policies following allegations of poor pupil wellbeing and harsh discipline at the Athena Learning Trust. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/petition-seeks-government-review-of-multi-academy-trust-policies --- Cite as: UK Athena Learning Trust governance scrutiny. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uk-athena-learning-trust-governance-scrutiny