TWO schools have revealed plans to join forces and become the first in Hertfordshire to set up a new educational partnership.

The Highfield School and Fearnhill School in Letchworth GC have launched a consultation on becoming a co-operative trust, which would see the schools work together more closely and share resources.

Both schools would still be funded by Herts County Council under the proposals but would share best practice, collaborate on curriculum development and use collective buying power.

The charitable trust, named the Letchworth Garden City Education Partnership, would also allow for the wider community to be involved in the running of each school by becoming members of a forum or council which appoints trustees.

The trustees in turn appoint members of the governing body, which will have greater responsibility in the running of the school.

If the trust goes ahead, the University of Hertfordshire and the Co-operative Group will become partners and provide additional support.

“We are extremely ambitious for all of our students, we can see real potential to work for the benefit of the whole community through the proposals for this partnership,” said Fearnhill headteacher Jed Whelan.

“We hope everyone will support us in developing this initiative and that over time other schools may consider coming on board as well.

“We know by working together through the vehicle of our trust we will be able to give the best opportunities possible to our students and families.”

Highfield headteacher Ian Morris added: “Our two schools have been working together for some time now and we are looking to strengthen this relationship and create new opportunities for our students.

“We are committed to ensuring they reach their full potential and go on to good jobs or into continuing education when they leave us.”

The consultation runs until December 5, with members of the public invited to submit an online questionnaire via either of the schools’ websites (click on the links at the top right of this page) or send their comments to either school by post.

A public meeting to discuss the proposals will also be held at Fearnhill School in Icknield Way from 6.30pm on Monday.