TWO school education trusts in Wiltshire are looking to merge.

Parents are being urged to have their say as part of the consultation process between the Equa MAT Trust and The Mead Trust.

The move follows several meetings between the boards of the two trusts which has led to an agreement in principle to explore a potential merger.

It is likely to involve nearly 1,200 pupils and 210 staff at The Mead Trust schools in Trowbridge and Melksham.

In a letter to stakeholders, the two Trusts said: “We believe this provides an exciting opportunity for our schools, our staff and children, young people and families within the local community we serve.

Wiltshire Times: Castle Mead Primary School in Trowbridge could become part of a proposed education trust merger.

“We believe there is considerable synergy between our Trusts; discussions are at an early stage and consultation is now open to all stakeholders.

“This is your chance to ask any questions and let us know what you think - we would love to hear from you”

A merger steering committee made up of trustees and senior staff from both trusts is planning and overseeing the merger, which has the blessing of the Diocese of Salisbury.

If a decision is made to merge, all employees from The Mead Trust would join Equa MAT and The Mead Trust Charitable Company would be wound down.

Equa Multi Academy Trust consists of two secondary schools, the John of Gaunt in Trowbridge and The Lavington School at Market Lavington.

It also has seven primary schools at All Cannings, Bishop Cannings, Chirton, Dauntsey, Rushall, Tilshead and Woodborough; and two nursery provisions, with a potential secondary Resource Base opening in September.

The Mead Trust consists of three primary schools split over four sites, including four nurseries and two Complex Needs Resource Bases.

Two of the three schools are in Trowbridge – The Mead Primary School, operating on two sites at Hilperton and Wingfield - and Castle Mead School. The third is the River Mead School in Melksham.

The Trusts added: “Through an initial phase of exploration, it is clear that there is considerable synergy between the Trusts and that there are different areas of expertise and excellence within both organisations.

“Equa and The Mead Trust both provide a high standard of education to pupils and have a well-aligned set of values. We prioritise the importance of our communities and share an ambition to do the very best for all children and young people in our care.

“If a merger proceeds, the joining of the two Trusts would therefore be a partnership of equals, rooted firmly in our existing work and communities.

“There is a shared belief that by combining these two successful Trusts, we would create an exciting and dynamic organisation, with considerable strength, resources and expertise to deliver the aspirations and benefits we all seek for all of our children and young people, our staff and wider communities.

“Creating a larger family of schools would provide even greater opportunities to strengthen the learning and wellbeing of our children and young people, the continued development and wellbeing of staff and the leadership of effective school improvement."

The consultation closes at 5pm on Tuesday, July 25 and public open meetings will be held at Castle Mead Primary School on Monday, July 17 from 7pm-8pm and at Lavington School on Wednesday, July 19 from 5pm–6pm for people to learn more about the proposed merger and ask questions.

For more details, click here.