We would like to take this opportunity to provide an update on the position of The Three Rivers Learning Trust, in relation to a number of proposed changes at both a local and a national level.
Attached is a summary of our position, in regards to Northumberland County Council’s proposed investment into education in Morpeth. We have worked very closely with colleagues at NCC to date, although we do not believe that the original proposal to relocate the three schools of the Trust, along with Morpeth First School to the County Hall site will enhance the organisation or delivery of educational provision for students within the Trust. We have responded to this effect through the consultation process, and hope to be able to discuss with NCC an alternative proposal for investment in education and leisure for Morpeth in due course.
The government’s White Paper, “Educational excellence everywhere”, published in March 2016, has wide ranging implications for all schools, which must become academies, or part of a Multi Academy Trust (MAT), by 2022. As an existing MAT, the Three Rivers is not required to change, but we may be approached by other schools that would wish to join our Trust. Our position is to consider any approach constructively and to work with schools to consider the most appropriate and beneficial way forward. Our summary position statement particularly outlines our aspiration to support Morpeth Partnership schools as they review their position in the light of the White Paper.
The schedule of house building projected for Morpeth and other partnership areas will, in time, bring a growth in the school aged population who wish to be educated through Morpeth Partnership schools. The three schools of the Learning Trust are oversubscribed in almost all year groups, and we are working with our feeder schools, NCC and with the Department for Education, with the aim of meeting the anticipate growth in demand.
Please take time to read our summary Position Statement, and be reassured that directors and school leaders of the Three Rivers will continue to work with our local partners to provide strategic leadership in admissions arrangements and in the organisation of education for the Three Rivers and the Morpeth Partnership.
Yours sincerely
Paul Carvin, Chair
Simon Taylor, Executive Headteacher
