Karen Burns nee Hampson (OS 1995) was appointed to the post of Chief Executive Officer of Carillion Academies Trust in 2016. She subsequently decoupled sponsorship from Carillion and created a new entity, Victorious Academies Trust.

There are now 9 primary schools in the North West within the Trust and several others working alongside. Karen also facilitates training across the UK for the National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership. She has been a keynote speaker at several educational events including the MAT summit and more recently was invited to present as an 'inspirational woman in educational leadership.'

As part of her role Karen works with other Old Stopfordians, including Jenny Callaghan nee Roberts (OS 1994) who is a Headteacher within the Trust.  Karen’s PR support is provided by Inform where Kate Healey nee Longden (OS 1999) is Director and Founder.

In addition, all the academies within the Trust receive mental health training from Team Mental Health, where Libby Artingstall (OS 1999) is Director and Founder.