A scheme aimed at sharing good working practices across a number of schools has been launched.

West Lakes Academy, in Egremont, is considering applying to become a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), and if successful, would invite other academy schools in the area to join.

The purpose, says principal Jonathan Johnson, is “to support improved collaboration, co-ordination and understanding” between West Lakes and any partner primary or secondary academy schools that may join the trust.

If it successfully applies to the Department for Education to become a MAT, West Lakes’ conversion would take effect from September.

The academy’s governing body would remain and make decisions about how its school is run, but the overarching MAT would hold the academy – and any others that join – to account. Schools within the MAT would keep their current names and uniforms.

Mr Johnson added: “The sponsors – Sellafield Ltd, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and the University of Central Lancashire – and governors are keen for us to apply for MAT status. We wish to create a trust that fully reflects our values and that has benefits for all the students in all the schools who may wish to join.

“West Lakes Academy has had a very long and proud reputation for working with and alongside a large number and wide range of partners to benefit the children and young people in those schools and the west coast.

“We hope to build on those strong partnerships by providing real support and help where it is needed.

“There are many advantages in such an arrangement, including opportunities to share best practice in teaching and learning and we feel this is a natural next step, with us formally sharing our excellent practice with other schools.”

A consultation is running until Friday, May 27 to invite parents’ comments and an open evening, including a presentation, will be held in the academy on Monday at 6.30pm.

Parents are also able to email comments and questions to MAT@westlakesacademy. org.uk.