The governing bodies of two of Falmouth’s largest primary schools have given the thumbs up to plans to join forces to form a federation which is to be known as The Killigrew Partnership.

St Francis School and King Charles School have been working under one head teacher since Claire Fortey was drafted into oversee the fight back of the latter following a critical Ofsted report which saw it placed in special measures.

Thanks to the hard work of staff, pupils and governors, the school managed one of the quickest turn arounds ever recorded and was lifted out of special measures last July after only ten months.

Mrs Fortey has now been appointed executive head of the federation, a role she will officially adopt on March 1. The next stage is to formalise the leadership structure in each school.

Parents have now been told that the full governing bodies of both schools have voted to form the federation. In a letter, Dave Nicoll, chair of governors at St Francis, and Fiona Osman, his counterpart at King Charles, said: “This decision has been made following comprehensive research and consultation.

“It is important to stress that whilst the majority of the responses supported the move to federation, the governors recognised all feedback and have been mindful to explore all objections or concerns.

“All parents can be reassured that central to this decision is the commitment that St Francis and King Charles remain as entirely separate schools with their own individuality and ethos. The federation will formalise collaborative working across the two schools for the benefit of all pupils, parents and staff. We are excited that two such high achieving schools can look forward to a future of mutual support and continued success.”

Mrs Fortey added: “I feel very privileged to be able work with and for our wonderful pupils, parents, staff and governors and would like to take this opportunity of thanking you all for all your tremendous support.”