Alcester: developing a partnership

Summary

Three secondary schools in Alcester have developed a collaborative partnership that enables them to share resources and maximise opportunities for pupils and staff.

Key learning/outcomes

The schools have developed a model of collaboration that is easily managed and locally driven.
The schools have retained their own identities while sharing resources and creating opportunities for both pupils and staff.

Background

Alcester is a small town in rural Warwickshire. Despite its size, it supports three secondary schools by drawing in pupils from the surrounding countryside. The schools are Alcester Grammar School, St Benedict’s Catholic High School and Alcester High School. The schools are all over-subscribed and rated either ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

The three schools were already collaborating on a small scale, in areas such as CPD and gifted and talented programmes.

Key challenges and issues

Extending sixth-form provision

The three schools wanted to work together to extend post-16 provision, including developing an international baccalaureate programme.

Transport in a rural area

The schools shared similar challenges relating to the provision of transport in a rural area.

Solution or approach

Deciding on a model for collaboration

The schools considered forming a soft federation, but opted to continue working as a collaborative for the time being.

Appointing a 14-19 co-ordinator

The schools secured local funds to appoint a 14-19 co-ordinator to develop and extend sixth-form provision.

Further information

For further information contact St Benedict’s Catholic High School.