Two local Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) in Teignbridge are exploring the opportunities that would result from a proposed merger.

Estuaries Trust - which includes Newton Abbot College; Dawlish College; and Starcross Primary School - and Osprey Learning Trust - which includes Teignmouth Community School, Exeter Road site (secondary) and Mill Lane (primary), Kenn CofE Primary; Kenton Primary School; and Cockwood Primary School. - are seeking to improve the life chances of the thousands of young people whom they serve by uniting to form a larger MAT.

A spokesman said: ’The move will ensure there is close collaboration across all eight schools and the new, larger MAT will benefit from economies of scale and will be much more self-reliant.’

The two lMATs have written to pupils and parents to inform them that they are collaborating with the intention of merging.

Paul Austin, chairman of the Board Estuaries MAT commented: ’This represents an outstanding opportunity for everyone involved in our trusts, but above all, the pupils.

’Two strong multi-academy trusts merging into one; with a united vision and ambitions for high quality education across our communities.’

Tony Smith, chairman of the Osprey Learning Trust, added: ’I am very excited about the relationship with Estuaries MAT and the potential for our trusts to merge to form a new trust.

’We have different, but complementary characters and skills. Our focus will continue to be to ensure the very best education for our pupils.’

Pictured: Katy Quinn, CEO of Osprey Learning Trust and Paul Cornish, CEO of Estuaries Trust