CLOSER links between Heywood and Dene Magna would be of huge benefit to both schools, says a Government report published on Tuesday.

The report recommends Heywood working more closely with Dene Magna in a 'National Challenge Trust' – the first of its kind in Gloucestershire. 

Gloucestershire County Council is now considering the report, produced by education expert Graham Badman as part of a review of schools with challenging results and low pupil numbers.

Deputy leader at Gloucestershire County Council, Cllr Jackie Hall, said: "Heywood School has made great progress during the last year, but faces big challenges because it's a small school with limited resources.

"By working closely with Dene Magna School, we could bring even more money into this part of the Forest of Dean and secure a great future for young people in Cinderford.

"I am happy with the recommendations of the report and look forward to working closely with both schools to achieve this."

As a first step, the report recommends that Heywood enters into a formal arrangement with Dene Magna School which will secure substantial additional funding from the government of up to £750,000 until the end of the academic year 2010/11.

Under this arrangement (which is called a "National Challenge Trust") the two schools would work together, sharing resources and expertise. 

David Thornes, chair of governors at Heywood, said: "This is a clear vote of confidence in the work we've done over several years and the achievements we have made. I think it is important that, together with Dene Magna, we remain looking at the bigger picture."

Gloucestershire County Council will now also consider options for other Forest schools and the Royal Forest of Dean College to develop stronger links. 

This would include a strategic plan to widen opportunities for vocational and sixth form students.

Heywood Community School is one of nine Gloucestershire schools in the 'National Challenge', which aims to improve secondary schools facing the biggest challenges, by providing extra support and funding.

Jo Grills, director of learning and development at Gloucestershire County Council said: "I am writing to all parents at the school explaining Graham Badman's recommendation. 

"The next step will be securing additional funding from the government and supporting Heywood and Dene Magna to explore working more closely together."