Important Information
Q: What exactly is happening with the schools?
A: High Street Primary Academy and Millbay Academy are merging. This means that starting from September 2025 while the schools will be working together more closely, they will still remain on their separate sites.
Q: Why is this merger happening?
A: The decision to merge is due to a decline in the number of primary-aged children in Plymouth. By combining the resources of High Street and Millbay Academy, the Reach South Academy Trust can continue to provide high quality education to all students.
Q: Will any students lose their place because of the merger?
A: No, no students will lose their place as a result of the merger. If your child is already attending High Street Primary or Millbay Academy, they will continue their education without any disruption. All students currently attending Millbay’s primary.
Q: Will my child still automatically move to Millbay Academy for secondary school?
A: Yes, they will still have automatic admission to Millbay Academy’s secondary school (Year 7 and above). The merger does not affect their transition to secondary school.
Q: How will class sizes and resources be affected by the merger?
A: The merger is designed to ensure that class sizes remain manageable and that resources are used more efficiently.
Q: What about the staff at both schools? Will there be job losses?
A: No jobs will be lost due to the merging of both schools. The goal of the merger is not to reduce staff but to consolidate resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
Q: How will the two schools work together after the merger?
A: Even though the schools will be on separate sites, they will work closely together as part of the Reach South Academy Trust. The leadership teams from both schools will continue to collaborate.
Q:Will the curriculum change because of the merger?
A: The curriculum at both schools will remain of high quality, with no changes as a result of the merger.
Q: How can parents share their views or ask further questions about the merger?
A: We encourage all parents and carers to share their thoughts and ask any questions they may have. You can do this by submitting your feedback through the online form. The consultation period will remain open until Friday 8th November 2024.