School’s historic academy proposal

Stephen Barrow

LIMESIDE is set to become the first primary school in Oldham to gain academy status.

The Hollinwood school is working on a formal proposal to open as an academy on September 1, sponsored by Oasis Community Learning. In the space of six years, the school developed from special measures to outstanding in the OFSTED inspections.

Limeside has enjoyed an excellent relationship with Oasis Academy Oldham, which has delivered half-term transition activities and pupil mentoring over the last two years.

Limeside’s governors took the decision after months of research and parents were invited to a consultation with Oasis’s founder Steve Chalke to discuss the plans.

Stephen Barrow, chair of governors, said it was a “historic moment” for the school.

He said: “Becoming an Oasis Academy will mean that we can continue to offer, and expand upon, a truly community-focused school — combining educational excellence with a programme of social, health and pastoral care for all.”

Mr Chalke said: “Limeside is an excellent school that delivers good results. At Oasis we share the same passion to improve life chances and are excited about the opportunity of working together and ensuring that our new collaboration spreads further into the community in Oldham.”

There will also be further opportunities for discussion with families, staff and stakeholders as the academy proposal is developed.

n Oasis is also developing the new academy formed by the merging of Kaskenmoor and South Chadderton Schools. Gail Webb, head of performance at Oldham Council said: “The Academies Act 2010 makes it possible for primary, secondary or special schools to become academies.

“All schools ranked good with outstanding features by Ofsted will automatically be eligible. In addition any school, irrespective of its Ofsted rating, will be able to apply to join an existing successful academy trust.

“Limeside Primary School could apply for academy status in its own right but has decided to join the Oasis Academy, forming a ‘chain’. There is no legislative reason why other primary schools in the area around Oasis could not follow suit.”