THREE schools and a nursery in Tidworth and Ludgershall are becoming part of a new educational trust.

The Wellington Academy, Wellington Primary Academy, Wellington Eagles Academy and The Nest nursery have joined the Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Trust (RWBAT) from today (April 1).

Steven Paddock, who was the deputy headteacher at Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, has been appointed headteacher of the Wellington Academy.

Headteacher Claire Addis continues to lead Wellington Primary and Wellington Eagles, and Clare Robertson will continue to manage The Nest.

George Croxford, the CEO of RWBAT, said the trust is delighted to be taking the schools and nursery on the next part of their journey.

“The Academy has some superb facilities and talented staff, and having worked with Steven Paddock for several years I know he is exactly the right person to provide inspirational leadership to the students and staff alike,” said Mr Croxford.

“Similarly, Claire Addis has a long track record in driving up standards and delivering outstanding results for schools, and we are very much looking forward to working with her and with Clare Robertson, who opened the nursery in 2015 and achieved Outstanding in its 2017 Ofsted inspection.

“RWBAT has a strong track record of success, including transforming the Lawn Manor Academy in Swindon, which is now on its way to achieving Outstanding in its Ofsted inspection.

“We are delighted that Wellington College have committed to providing an annual grant for the three Wellington schools and nursery, and I’d like to thank the Wellington College Academy Trust (WCAT) for their support and cooperation in the process of joining RWBAT.”

Steven Paddock said he is looking forward to taking up the headteacher post. He said: “These are unusual times for schools, with most students working at home, but my message to students is a promise – that I and my staff will do our utmost to help you be the best that you can be.

“I firmly believe that everyone has talent, and I and my colleagues will do everything in our power to help you discover your talents and take them as far as you can.”

Claire Addis said she is looking forward to working with Mr Paddock and his senior team, adding: “Both primaries will feed into the Wellington Academy, and we are taking a very collaborative approach, drawing on all the experience and good practice that we share.

“I am delighted that, by becoming part of the Royal Wotton Bassett Academy Trust, there is a wealth of expertise and support to join us on our journey. I see this as a unique opportunity to develop an ethos where the child is truly at the centre of all decisions we make throughout their entire school life, and where we can shape the future of a new community.”