The future of education in the Forest of Dean is set for a major transformation as plans to transfer the management of two schools and a technical college have been welcomed by the local community. The South Gloucestershire and Stroud Academy Trust announced it is preparing to transition Forest High School in Cinderford and Berkeley Green University Technical College in Berkeley to the Greenshaw Learning Trust (GLT). Concurrently, Pegasus School in Patchway, Bristol, will move under the governance of the Enable Trust.
This strategic transfer comes amid hopes for a Government-funded revamp of the facilities, especially Forest High School, which is currently undergoing an improvement journey. The school has already been collaborating closely with GLT to bolster educational standards, a partnership expected to grow stronger following the transfer.
Berkeley Green University Technical College, recognized for its success in technical education, stands to benefit significantly from joining Greenshaw’s broader network of schools, which will provide enhanced resources and opportunities.
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The proposed transfers await detailed due diligence and approval from the Department for Education, with implementation aimed for the start of 2027.
Local leaders express cautious optimism. Councillor Ray Donaghue, representing Cinderford, described the plans as “really good news,” emphasizing the critical need for investment. “The school buildings here are in greater need of rebuilding than many others across the country,” he said. “The community has long awaited these changes. Prioritizing the transfer and the building grant process is essential for the well-being of current and future pupils.”
Adding to the momentum, Forest of Dean MP Matt Bishop recently initiated a petition urging the Government to fast-track funding approval for a new Forest High School building, already gathering support from over 830 residents.
This development signals a promising step towards delivering the quality education environment that the Forest of Dean community has long sought.