AN OSWESTRY-based educational trust has added three more schools to its group after receiving approval from the Regional Schools Commissioner.

Shrewsbury Academy, Grange Primary School and Longlands Community Primary School have all joined the list of schools under management by The Marches Academy Trust.

The trust is now working with the Department for Education and Local Authority to ensure a smooth transaction over the next academic year.

The Trust has already built a relationship with The Marches School (Oswestry), Sir John Talbot’s school (Whitchurch), Tilstock CofE Primary School and Lower Heath CofE Primary School.

Sarah Longville, CEO of the Marches Academy Trust, spent time at Shrewsbury Academy on Wednesday to welcome students back from their summer break.

“I am pleased with the decision and look forward to working alongside the students, staff and communities to ensure these schools are all the local schools of choice in their respective areas,” said Sarah.

“The Marches Academy Trust has developed and grown into a formidable team of schools, with a common aim of giving the children of Shropshire a first-class education.

“We look forward to ensuring the children gain an excellent and wide array of opportunities in the years to come.”