Two Walsall schools to become academies

The two top-performing schools in Walsall are to become academies under plans just unveiled.

Queen Mary's High and Queen Mary's Grammar, which are both rated as outstanding, could become academies by as early as May 1.

Headteacher of Queen Mary's High Alison Bruton said the move would give the schools greater autonomy and control over their own fortunes.

The two selective schools both finish consistently at the top of the league tables in Walsall.

They would join Park Hall Infants School and Shire Oak School, which have both already become academies under the coalition government's controversial Academies Bill.

Applications have been made to the education secretary and work is now going on to finalise funding agreements.

Full consultation has been taking place with parents, staff and governors. Mrs Bruton, who took over at the helm of the girls school in 2009, said: "We have considered academy status very carefully and feel very much that it will give us that independence and autonomy over various aspects of the running of our school."

The school, in Upper Forster Street, is currently scrutinising a funding agreement with the final piece of consultation due to take place next week.