Lois Bowery, Headteacher at Merriott Primary School and Haselbury Plucknett C of E Primary School, says, “Both of the Haselbury Plucknett and Merriott school communities are very excited for this next step in our schools’ journeys. Through our current federation, we understand the value of sharing best practice, collaboration and sharing resources to give our children greater opportunities. To now be part of a bigger family of schools means more potential to develop our schools and also the schools we work with to flourish and further enhance the education we offer.”

Chrysta Garnett, CEO of the QET, is excited to welcome these two schools to the Trust. “We already have such a fantastic relationship and it is great to discover what makes these schools so special and unique. I know we are going to learn so much from each other and the impact on our Trust-wide primary education offer is going to be very positive. Smaller village and rural schools are a vital part of our community that deserve care, investment and support.“

The Quantock Education Trust schools now include Haygrove School, Sexey’s School, Spaxton C of E Primary School, Stogursey C of E Primary School, St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School, Merriott Primary School and Haselbury Plucknett Church of England Primary School.