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TWO Taunton schools could close to make way for a £multi-million Church-sponsored academy.

Ladymead Community School and The St Augustine of Canterbury School would be replaced by The North Taunton Academy.

Governors back moves by Somerset County Council and the Anglican and RC Churches to formally express an interest.

Studies are underway to decide where the academy would be, but cash from the sale of existing schools would be ploughed into the project.

Pupils from the two schools would attend the new independent state school.

Somerset College would like to be "a significant partner".

Ladymead head teacher Mark Trusson said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the development of education in Taunton.

"The financial investment and resources, coupled with the many opportunities an academy will bring, will ensure the children of Taunton receive the absolute best."

St Augustine's head Gail Crees said: "The governors and staff are delighted with the proposal - it's a real opportunity for the children and families of Taunton."

The academy would be funded by the Department for Communities, Schools and Families.

The Government initially backed plans for a Taunton academy, then changed its mind.

It was reinstated after Taunton MP Jeremy Browne spoke with Schools Minister Lord Adonis.

Mr Browne said: "The time I spent persuading him to reinstate the North Taunton Academy could prove to be the most important half hour I've spent as Taunton's MP."

He added that St Augustine's future was uncertain because of falling pupil numbers, while there is "scope for higher academic achievement at Ladymead".

"My primary concern is the educational prospects for children living in north Taunton," said Mr Browne.

"Better buildings and extra investment will help staff motivation and retention at the same time as benefiting the students."

8:02am Thursday 8th May 2008

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