FRESH plans for a West Somerset schools trust to merge with a larger partnership were announced this week, almost a year since a previous proposed merger fell through.

Minehead-based Beacon Education Trust runs nine schools and nurseries with hundreds of pupils across the district.

It originally planned to merge with Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust in 2024 but the move was initially delayed, and then dropped in February of last year.

Beacon was exploring the move following pressure from the Department for Education (DfE) after ‘warning notices’ had been issued to Minehead Middle School and Minehead First School.

Now, Beacon has announced it will instead merge with the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership (MNSP), which runs 37 schools in the Bath and north east area of the county.

Beacon interim chief executive Trudy Danby said the plans were supported by the Bath and Wells Diocese as being ‘in the best interests of staff, children, and the wider West Somerset community’.

Ms Danby said: “This decision reflects our shared commitment to providing the highest quality education and ensuring long-term stability and success for our children.

“It is anticipated that we will join MNSP on September 1.

“MNSP are a highly successful trust with an enviable track record of excellence.

“They are currently working with the trust at Minehead Middle School and Danesfield Middle School under the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) programme supporting attendance, behaviour, and attainment.

“By joining MNSP, we will be able to draw on a wider pool of expertise, resources, and opportunities for both staff and children.

“This will strengthen our ability to deliver excellent teaching and learning and ensure children can attend the best school possible regardless of where they might live or the challenges they might face.”

Ms Danby said she understood change often brought questions and concerns, and Beacon wanted to reassure people it was working closely with MNSP to ensure a smooth transition.

She said anybody with questions or who would like further information, should not hesitate to contact Beacon.

Ms Danby said: “We will continue to share further information once a formal decision is ratified at the DfE advisory board, scheduled for February.

“In addition, MNSP are collaborating with partners across West Somerset to explore sustainable solutions for education in the region.

“This work is ongoing, and we will keep you informed as plans develop.

“This is an exciting time for the future of education in West Somerset.”

Ms Danby thanked parents and carers for their continued support and trust in Beacon.

Beacon Educations runs Minehead Middle School and Minehead First School, St Michael’s Church of England First School, also in Minehead, Danesfield Church of England School and St Peter's Church of England First School, in Williton, Old Cleeve Church of England First School, in Washford, and Teddy Bears Nursery, in Washford, St Peter’s Nursery, in Williton, and King Edward Road Nursery, in Minehead.

MNSP was founded in 2009 when two Midsomer Norton schools merged and has grown with additional secondary, primary, and special and alternative provision schools.