A SPECIAL needs school is the latest to join a successful trust that which already manages the the King John School in Thundersley.

Leaders at the Castledon School, in Bromfords Drive, Wickford, are currently in talks to become part of the Zenith Multi-Academy Trust.

The trust currently comprises of one primary school - Laindon Park – and three secondary schools – the James Hornsby School in Basildon, Castle View School in Canvey Island, and the King John School in Benfleet.

Headteacher Simon Holliday said: “Indeed, after considering a range of trusts, we have recently been consulting with staff, parents, and all stakeholders regarding joining Zenith.

“As it stands, both Castledon and Zenith have been undertaking due diligence with a view that we may wish to move forward with joining. With Zenith, we found that as a small local trust, its values and ethos align with our own – especially our shared desire to be inclusive. I know there will also be a range of benefits to our staff.

“From our perspective, we would hope this move enhances curriculum opportunities and access for young people attending Castledon through partnerships with the other schools currently within the trust.”

Castledon School provides learning opportunities for children with special educational needs and learning difficulties.

The courses are aimed at young people with learning difficulties who need a boost in life.

The Zenith trust says on its website: “Our core focus is on school improvement, and to this end we are investing heavily in staff training for teaching staff, support staff, and school leaders.

“ Being outwards-facing is a key priority for us, and we are committed to professional life-long learning and working collaboratively together to improve our practice.”

In 2017, the school officially opened a sixth form, with Tory MP, Mark Francois, coming to the college to cut the ribbon.