A FORMERLY failing school is set to join a thriving multi-academy trust as it continues its quest towards achieving the highest possible ranking.

John Madejski Academy has been removed from special measures following a damning Ofsted inspection in 2015.

The school is now set to join forces with The White Horse Federation (TWHF) as it looks to achieve an 'outstanding' rating by the education watchdog.

Laura Ellener, principal, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for all of the students families and staff at JMA, and will further accelerate our progress to becoming outstanding. "TWHF’s ambitions and values closely align with our own and so this collaboration was an obvious choice.

"We are looking forward to becoming part of TWHF family, continuing to create an exceptional educational community and achieving all the possibilities and opportunities that this will bring.”

TWHF currently supports 20 primary, secondary and special schools across Oxfordshire, Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. JMA will be its first venture in Berkshire.

The merger is set to take place next month.

Nick Capstick OBE, CEO, added: "We, at the White Horse Federation, are delighted that JMA are joining our family of schools and look forward to supporting their continued journey to becoming an outstanding school while also benefitting from the many talents and gifts the school will undoubtedly bring to our federation."