Schools' Co-op collaboration delight (From Thurrock Gazette)

Schools' Co-op collaboration delight

8:00am Saturday 21st April 2012 in News

THREE schools in Thurrock have joined forces to become the country’s first Co-operative Multi Academy Trust.

East Tilbury infant and junior schools converted to academy status at the beginning of April, and have now joined St Clere’s School in Stanford-le-Hope as partners in the St Clere’s Co-operative Academy Trust.

Shelagh Cosgrow, headteacher, East Tilbury Infant School, said “This is a ground breaking development which demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the best possible future for our children.

“Through consolidating our collaborative work in this way, we are opening opportunities to all members of our local communities.

“Governors and staff embrace this landmark in education for the 21st century.

“All credit is due to our chairmen of governors who have demonstrated commitment to our vision of a Co-operative Multi-academy Trust.” The move formalises the work the schools have been doing together for the last ten years, developing the same approaches to behaviour, uniform and pupil transition, as well as making joint staff appointments.

The academy trust is also a member of the national Schools Co-operative Society, which is made up of hundreds of independent Co-operative Schools and educational Co-operatives across the country, working as a network to offer advice, guidance and support to members.

The move has also been supported by Thurrock Council.

Jo Olsson, director of people services, said: “This is a great example of the kind of radical and creative thinking that is a quietly understated reality in Thurrock.”