FIVE rural first schools in West Somerset – Cutcombe, Dunster, Exford, St Dubricius Porlock and Timberscombe – have formed The Moorland Federation.

The formal affiliation is designed to build on already high standards and enhance educational opportunities for the children while ensuring each of the schools retains its individuality.

A six-week public consultation was held last term and, following this and extensive meetings with parents, staff and governors, the governing bodies of each school independently voted to form a federation.

“The positive feedback was overwhelming,” said newly-elected chairman the federated board, John Hill.

“It’s an exciting time. Smaller schools work best together, and this will create so many new opportunities for the staff and children.”

By working closer together, teachers will be able to share best practice and expertise. Pupils will be given greater opportunity to work together, which will also give them time to get to know one another better before they move on to Minehead Middle School.

The federated board of governors is composed of elected governors for staff and parents, former members of the individual school governing bodies, and some newly-appointed governors.

It met for the first time on September 4 and put into motion the process of creating closer ties between the schools.

Mr Hill said: “We fortunately have the support and involvement of our successful, hardworking headteachers, who are determined to continue improving the opportunities provided for the pupils to progress.

“It’s going to be a lot of work for everybody, but the possibilities for staff, pupil and the security of our schools in the future will make it worth the effort.

“Not only will the shared ethos and objectives of the schools grow stronger collectively, but the educational prospects for the children will be enhanced by this move.

“Our schools will really benefit from working together and the federation will provide a secure foundation. As governors, we are committed to creating the best possible environment to enable our children, staff and families to learn and grow.”

The Moorland Federation replaces the informal joint working that has been in place for some years – the day-to-day life for pupils and families will seem very much the same as always.