PARENTS of pupils at a primary school and a special school in York have backed plans to “federate” the two schools.

Governors of Hob Moor Oaks and Hob Moor primary schools in Acomb have decided, following a formal consultation process, to agree to merge.

Feedback from a survey of parents showed that they agreed with the governing bodies of both schools to go ahead with the move.

City of York Council believes “federating” the schools would result in pupils being able to enjoy a wider range of opportunities.

Education chiefs insist the move is not a “merger” with both schools maintaining their own identities. However, the schools will have one shared executive head teacher and governing body. Both schools are already located in a single building and the decision enables them to integrate certain aspects.

Jim Porteous, chairman of governors at Hob Moor Oaks, said: “I am delighted that governors of both schools have decided to work together in this way and look forward to the exciting opportunities that this will offer our children.

“The governors of both schools think it would be a great idea to federate and we unanimously decided to go to consultation to ask parents staff and everybody involved for their comments. I think it would be a wonderful opportunity for a special needs school and a mainstream primary to federate, which is quite unusual.”

Nick Smart, chairman of governors at Hob Moor School, said: “We will be able to develop established working relationships, and will work together to provide the highest quality of education for all our children.”

Angela Charlton, head teacher of Hob Moor Primary, said: “We can all look forward to both schools building an outstanding future together.”

York Council’s executive member for children’s services, Coun Carol Runciman said: “I am delighted that the consultation about the federation of Hob Moor Primary School and Hob Moor Oaks Special School has had a positive result.

“I pay tribute to the governing bodies that have worked so hard to bring this about and I know it will give the opportunity to make joint working even stronger than it is already. “This is a ground breaking decision for the city and I wish both schools every success in the future.”

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