Trust approved for school as community grows

An academy trust has been appointed to run a new school in Redditch.

Foxlydiate First School, providing 450 school places and a 52-place nursery, is planned to open in 2027, addressing a growing need for school places in the area which has seen housing growth.

Worcestershire County Council, which approved proposals for a school in 2023, last year invited interested parties to bid to run it.

The Rivers Church of England (C of E) Academy Trust has been chosen and the final decision was made by the Department for Education, the council said.

Councillor David Chambers, cabinet member for Education, said the trust had a proven track record in delivering high-quality education, combined with local expertise.

Matt Meckin, chief executive of the Rivers C of E Academy Trust, said: "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."

The trust, established in 2014, is a multi-academy trust specialising in primary education.

It currently operates 15 academies across the country, including 12 in Worcestershire, all rated outstanding or good by Ofsted, the council said.

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