PRIMARY schools at Lydney and Aylburton have decided to merge and share activities and a new teaching framework under a joint headship.

"In fact we started the process last autumn but now it is working well we feel confident to tell the world that we are going ahead," said Scott Howes, who will lead both schools together with Louisa Lawson.

The fact that Lydney CofE already had a joint headship with Mrs Lawson and Mr Howes was a big factor in planning the merger after Aylburton CofE's long-time head teacher retired last year.

"It is working very well and everyone is very excited about this. All the teachers are really involved, so it's not just a matter of combining leadership. We are all working together."

Both schools hold the same ethos about what constitutes a good quality education he said, and they would be developing the same curriculum together.

Collaboration on projects had already started with a joint safety exercise. The children enjoyed the event and have requested a friendly football challenge between the schools.

Mr Howes said that while both schools would keep their own identities, more joint projects would be undertaken, even outings in time. To this end (and to help with movement between the schools) a mini-bus would be of great use if any kind sponsor would step in to help.

Both schools also wish to keep their own identities; so many things are still single school based.

"This is an exciting time for all involved," Mr Howes added.