THOUSANDS of parents across York are being asked for their views on a planned schools merger.

As The Press reported this time last year, two York academy chains, which between them teach about 6,000 children in city schools, want to merge and from today (October 11) they are asking parents and carers to have an input.

South Bank Multi Academy Trust and South York Multi Academy Trust (SYMAT), have announced they are to explore a possible merger which could see a total of eight primary and junior schools and three secondary schools in York and its surrounding villages brought together in one trust.

The merged Trust would offer provision for pupils from ages three to 18, serving almost 6,000 students.

The schools involved are: Archbishop of York CE Junior; Carr Junior; Dunnington CE; Escrick CE; Fulford School; Knavesmire; Millthorpe; Scarcroft; Wheldrake with Thorganby CE; Woodthorpe and York High.

In a letter to parents Steve Lewis the CEO SYMAT said: “We have been in discussions with South Bank Multi Academy Trust who share the same ambitions for their pupils. Both trusts have a clear commitment to providing an outstanding education in the heart of their local community. We value the unique qualities and strengths of all our schools.

“Collectively our trust boards believe one of the best ways forward to further enhance our work is to bring our multi academy trusts together in a formal merger. All our schools would work more closely together within a combined multi academy trust.”

The consultation will end at 3pm on November 12 and there will be a drop in session at 6pm, on Monday, November 1 at Fulford School.

Parents should email consultation@fulford.york.sch.uk