IT has been announced that Middlewich High School has been converted to Academy status.

After a lengthy period of due diligence, the new status became official on Wednesday, December 1, and the site officially joins the family of schools in the Sir John Brunner Foundation.

Speaking about the news, Headteacher Heidi Thurland said the move to Academy status represented a key milestone in the school's history.

She said: "Since my appointment in Easter 2019 it has been my determination and that of Governors that Middlewich High School is associated with the highest standards of education.

"Our partnership with The County High School Leftwich and Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College, who currently comprise the SJB Foundation is a clear sign of our intent to ensure the highest standards of education for our community.

"We are excited about the opportunities that working within the Foundation will bring for both staff and students.

"This is a key milestone in the rich history of the school and further underlines our desire to provide a quality of education that has excellence as standard."

Northwich Guardian: Amber Clayton, Head Student at Middlewich High School

Amber Clayton, Head Student at Middlewich High School

It isn't just the staff who are thrilled by the announcement, with Amber Clayton, the current Head Student, saying: "By joining with other schools that have great reputations and standards this shows our community what Middlewich students are capable of."

Meanwhile, Alan Redley, the Chair of Trustees of SJB, said: "'I am delighted to warmly welcome Middlewich High School to the Sir John Brunner Foundation.

"We look forward to sharing and learning together."

The school is now looking forward to collaborating on professional development with schools within the SJB Foundation, as they work together to ensure the highest standards of education for students in the family.