A WEM special needs school rated inadequate by inspectors is facing a brighter future with the Marches Academy Trust, after it agreed a sponsorship.

Woodlands School, a specialist provider of education to local children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, is currently working with the Trust to become an academy on April 1.

The school was rated as good in a 2015 inspection, but the November 2019 review saw the school's rating drop.

Sarah Finch, chief executive officer of the Marches Academy Trust, believed Woodlands joining the Trust was a 'fantastic opportunity'.

She said: "The Trustees have worked with the headteacher and her leadership team at Woodlands School to ensure that everyone is confident about the collaboration going forward.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for the Trust to grow in strength with a school that has a wealth of SEN expertise, and through the Trust, Woodlands School will continue to build an excellent standard of SEMH education."

Meanwhile Jules Taylor, headteacher at Woodlands expressed her own excitement at the proposal.

"This is an exciting prospect for the whole school community," she said.

"Being part of the Marches Academy Trust will give the students and staff at Woodlands School many more learning experiences and memorable moments that will stay with our children for the rest of their lives and inspire them to become life-long learners.

"We can share our knowledge to provide excellent learning opportunities and experiences for all students."

By joining the Trust, Woodlands will gain access to local support to ensure the highest standards of education, together with securing the 'on-going sustainability of the school into the future'.

The school will in turn, strengthen the SEN expertise within the Trust, particularly in supporting students that require additional support with their education.

The Trust will work in partnership with Shropshire LA to ensure that children with SEMH across Shropshire get the best possible provision.

The next step is for parents, carers, staff, students and other members of the school community to have the opportunity to comment on the proposal.

The Trust are welcoming involvement in the next steps and there will be a virtual meeting for parents, carers and other members of the community on Friday, March 5 at 9am to discuss the school joining the Trust

All are welcome to attend to have any questions answered.

Details for joining the meeting can be obtained by calling the school reception on 01939 232372 and if anyone has any questions, contact Ms Finch directly on ceo@mmat.org.uk