THE Department for Education has approved The Rivers CofE Academy Trust to run the new Foxlydiate First School in Redditch.
This new 450-place first school and 52-place nursery is due to open in 2027 and will address the growing need for school places in the area, driven by significant new housing developments.
Worcestershire County Council approved proposals for a new school in November 2023 and invited interest parties from April to June 2024 to submit a bid to run the new school.
Following a thorough evaluation of proposals, a recommendation was submitted to the Regional Director for the Department for Education, who made the final decision on behalf of the Secretary of State.
Coun David Chambers, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for education, said: “We are delighted The Rivers CofE Academy Trust will be leading this important new school.
“Its proven track record in delivering high-quality education, combined with their local expertise and commitment to nurturing young learners, ensures the children of Redditch will benefit from the best start possible for their education.”
Matt Meckin, chief executive officer for The Rivers CofE Academy Trust, said: “We are delighted that the new Foxlydiate First School, will become part of The Rivers CofE Academy Trust.
“As one of the largest primary specialist trusts in the West Midlands, we are proud of our success in improving schools and delivering an extraordinary education for every pupil.
“With experience of establishing a free school in 2019 and an alternative provision free school in 2023, we bring proven expertise in creating thriving new schools.
“Our strong community focus will ensure Foxlydiate becomes a welcoming, inclusive hub for learning that will give local children the best possible start to their education.”
The Rivers CofE Academy Trust, established in 2014, is a multi-academy trust specialising in primary education.
It operates 15 academies across the country, including 12 in Worcestershire, all rated ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ by OFSTED.
The trust supports more than 5,500 pupils and employs 850 staff, making it one of the largest primary-focused trusts in the West Midlands.
