BTCT Stakeholder Engagement

Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust and Quantock Education Trust: Exploration of a Merger

Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is committed to ensuring that Every Child Achieves. As education continues to evolve, we are exploring opportunities that strengthen our schools, support our staff, and improve outcomes for young people.

Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust (BTC Trust) is currently exploring two proposals with a view to enhancing educational provision for communities in Somerset. We have agreed to:

• begin a joint exploration into the possibility of merging with Quantock Education Trust (QET) have agreed to begin a joint exploration into the possibility of merging. Working together could help us create a stronger, more resilient Somerset based Trust that better supports our schools, develops our staff, and delivers excellent education for all pupils. 
• support the Department for Education in developing a proposal for West Somerset College, currently part of our Trust, to join Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership as part of a strategy to develop education in the area to best meet the needs of young people.

These proposals are at an early exploratory stage, and no decisions have been made by the Department for Education.  However, we are committed to working closely in partnership with other Trusts in the Somerset area to look at how our shared values, expertise and resources can benefit the communities we serve.

Why explore a merger with QET?

A merger could help us to:

• Create a stronger, more ambitious education offer across Somerset
• Strengthen teaching and learning in all schools
• Enhance state boarding provision
• Build clear pathways from early years to post 16
• Share expertise across a wider network
• Use resources more effectively
• Expand professional development and career opportunities for staff
• Build a more resilient and future focused Trust

Our schools

Together, BTCT and QET Trust would bring together 15 primary, secondary and all through schools across Bridgwater, Crewkerne, Street, Bruton and surrounding areas. This would support around 7,500 pupils and more than 1,000 staff.

Why explore the re-brokerage of West Somerset College?

The Department for Education is reviewing how best to secure a strong and sustainable future for West Somerset College as part of its wider plans for education in the West Somerset region. This includes ensuring long-term financial stability and the highest quality of education for local young people.

One option being explored is re-brokering the College to Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership (MSNP), a Trust with a strong track record of school improvement. The aim is to build on complementary strengths, share best practice and ensure the most effective use of resources to provide the best possible opportunities for students and the wider community.  This proposal would see West Somerset College join MSNP’s group of 36 schools already engaged in providing quality education for communities in Somerset.

Both BTC Trust and MSNP remain committed to supporting every pupil to succeed and to securing the very best outcomes for young people in West Somerset.

Our vision

Our shared ambition is to create a high quality, Somerset focused Trust offering a seamless education pathway—from early years through to degree level study. This cradle to career approach aims to strengthen transitions, raise aspirations and help every young person reach their full potential. We are equally committed to supporting our staff through excellent training, leadership development and a collaborative, evidence informed culture.

Questions or feedback?

We know families and staff will have questions at this stage. Our Frequently Asked Questions documents are available below.

You can also share comments or questions using our:

Stakeholder Engagement Form