School in academy bid

A SOMERSET school is applying to become an academy, citing greater control and financial independence as reasons for the change.

Axbridge First School in Moorland Street this week revealed it is looking to make the change.

Academies were brought in under Labour in 2000 with the aim of creating schools outside of direct local authority control, although they are still subject to the national curriculum and Ofsted inspections.

Other academies in the area include The Kings of Wessex Academy in Cheddar and Hans Price Academy in Weston.

Axbridge First School headteacher Lorna Richardson said: “We believe that this change of status will give us the best opportunity to maintain the high quality of education we are so proud of.

“We will continue to be a church school serving the local population, but hope to gain greater financial control and flexibility, which will allow us more opportunities to innovate, develop and grow to meet the needs of our school community.”

The school is currently undertaking a consultation process with parents over the plans.