Primaries consider academy shake-up

Two primary schools in Staffordshire could be turned into academies as part of a major overhaul of the way they are run, it was revealed today.

Western Springs Primary School in Rugeley and Moorhill Primary School in Cannock are considering making the change.

The news has been revealed by Staffordshire county councillor Liz Staples, the cabinet member for education and skills.

Academies are outside council control and it unclear at the moment what would happen to the schools.

Moorhill, in Moorland Road, has around 370 pupils aged four to 11, and Western Springs, in School Road, has around 150 pupils.

Councillor Staples said the council was working with the schools to "give young people in the area the best quality education."

The headteacher of Moorhill, Sandra Peck, said the school is looking at all the options available and said the decision is for governors. In a released statement, she said: "The school's preferred option is to become a Co-operative Trust School.

"Governors intend to consult with parents and other stakeholders, after Christmas, to fully involve them."

Shirley Welllings, the headteacher of Western Springs, said it was considering becoming an Academy Status or Trust Status school.