THE merger of two York primary schools has been a great success in its first term, the head teacher says.

Osbaldwick Primary School merged with Derwent School in the summer, and the two schools now operate as one from two sites.

Headteacher Lesley Barringer said the first term together had been a success.

“Osbaldwick was a school of 210 and over-subscribed. We now have 312 children and another 34 in the nursery,” she said. “The local authority was very supportive with new resources including excellent outdoor areas and equipment.”

The merger has brought Derwent’s nursery to Osbaldwick school – the first time it has had early years provision.

Over the summer Mrs Barringer and the governors interviewed 80 people to take up 40 jobs at the new school – including teachers, teaching assistants, pastoral care providers, midday supervisors and cleaners.

She said: “We are delighted with our new nursery provision offering mornings, afternoons and lunchclub. We were very pleased but not surprised as the staff have all worked so hard. Their commitment is wonderful and the parents and children have been incredibly supportive.”

The autumn term saw pupils and staff celebrate their harvest festival and Christmas concerts, and the school halls were overflowing with parents for the two harvest festival events and seven Christmas concerts.

The school has commissioned an independent review after the merger and was graded good or outstanding in all areas – teaching, leadership, behaviour or achievement.

“I am very proud of everyone and all the work they have put in. The children have been marvellous, and we have had huge support from the parents,” said the head.

The New Year will see the school start work to bring allotments and science areas in its grounds back into operation, with help from the gardening group and after-school club.

Coun Janet Looker, City of York Council’s cabinet member for education, said the decision to merge the schools was taken after a long consultation.

She was delighted the independent report confirmed that the new school was performing well.