Partner school plans Trust status

Plans were announced on Monday 18 January 2010 to develop the Cressex Community School into Buckinghamshire's first Trust School. Formal consultation will begin this week to brief the local community about the plan to set up the Cressex National Challenge Co-operative Trust based on the values of the worldwide co-operative movement.

Wycombe Abbey School has enjoyed an informal partnership with the Cressex Community School for over five years. We are delighted that the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families has approved a proposal for Cressex to become a Co-operative Trust.

The proposed model of a Co-operative Trust would formalise the relationship between the Cressex Community School and Wycombe Abbey School as one of its partners. Dr Challoner's Grammar School in Amersham would be the lead partner alongside Wycombe Abbey School, the Co-operative College, Buckinghamshire New University and Buckinghamshire County Council.

The Co-operative College in Manchester will help the Trust to develop a model of education involving the whole community based on traditional co-operative values: self help; self responsibility; social responsibility; equality; equity and the ethical values of honesty, openness and caring for others.

The purpose of the Trust is to bring additional experience and expertise to support the Cressex Community School's future development. The new venture would be supported directly by central government with substantial additional funding.

Mrs Cynthia Hall said: 'We are delighted that Wycombe Abbey School will continue to support the Cressex Community School as it moves forward with this exciting new development.'

'Wycombe Abbey School is committed to extending and deepening its links with the community of High Wycombe at whose heart it is situated.'

David Hood, Headteacher of Cressex Community School, said: 'We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with an outstanding group of partners, who will support us in our mission to raise achievement and broaden the educational opportunities available to our students.'

Dr Katy Simmons, Chair of the Cressex Community School Governors said: 'The proposed Cooperative Trust would give parents and the local community new opportunities to get involved in education. The Trust would have a clear set of values and ethical principles that should stand the test of time.'

Marion Clayton, Cabinet Member for Achievement, Learning and Skills, referring to the Cressex Community School, said: 'We have been working with the school on how best to move forward and this is a very exciting proposal for expanding opportunities and raising standards in the area. All partners are committed to making a real difference for the students and the community.'

Further details about the proposals are available on the Cressex Community School website www.cressex.bucks.sch.uk