Introduction
What is The Longsands Learning Partnership?
The Partnership is the federation between the two mainstream secondary schools in St Neots: Longsands Academy and Ernulf Academy. Our purpose is to secure the best possible learning, experiences and outcomes for every student.

Each academy has its own particular character, traditions and identity. We also have much in common including: determination to be recognised as 'outstanding' by Ofsted for the progress and learning of our students; a strong focus on the needs of students as individuals; a wish to achieve more by working in collaboration than each school could aspire to on its own.

What is a Federation?
A Federation involves two or more maintained schools agreeing to enter into a formal partnership in line with the 2002 Education Act. It is not a merger. However, a single governing body acts in the interests of all students, parents/carers and staff.

Governors provide challenge and support. For example, they contribute to and have ultimate responsibility for the policies and direction of the Partnership. There is also a fully co-ordinated senior leadership structure, with one Principal for the two schools.

Why 'Learning Partnership'?
We prefer the term Learning Partnership because it conveys more effectively the active, ongoing collaboration that will characterise our work. We also wish to strengthen still further the network of relationships that the two Colleges already enjoy, e.g. with the St Neots Schools Forum.

In the Partnership, will both schools be improved?
Yes. Each school is on a journey of improvement. The starting points are recognised by all involved to be different even if the desired endpoints are the same.

The Governing Body and the Executive Principal are clear that processes and outcomes are acceptable only if they sustain good or outstanding practice where that is already in place, or secure improvement where it is needed.

Will the federation create more or better opportunities for young people in the locality?
Yes. The Partnership Improvement Plan sets out a number of key developments that will be the focus of attention over the first three years of operation. We are, for example, already investigating the most effective way to create a fully co-ordinated 'virtual learning environment', i.e. on-line learning available anywhere and at any time. Student Council members from both Colleges have worked jointly to consider how best to represent the views of young people.

There may also be curriculum changes aimed at ensuring students have access to the broadest possible range of options. The curriculum will continue to reflect individual preferences as well as local and national priorities.

Statement of Purpose, Values and Outcomes

Core Purpose
The core purpose of the Learning Partnership is to secure the best possible experience, learning and outcomes for each young person for whom we have responsibility.

Core Values
We Value:
  • care and respect for self and others;
  • honesty;
  • creativity;
  • clear and open communication;
  • high aspirations and the determination to fulfil them;
  • strong relationships and shared goals achieved through teamwork.
Desired Outcomes
Working in partnership with students, their families and the wider community, we believe that each young person should:
  • be safe;
  • be healthy;
  • give and receive respect as an individual;
  • enjoy and achieve in school and beyond;
  • develop the confidence, skills and attitudes necessary for economic well-being;
  • understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens and the importance of making a positive contribution to society;
  • develop moral awareness, cultural understanding and appreciation of diversity.



Statement of Purpose, Values and Outcomes
as drafted with help from staff and students in summer 2010


Will there be changes to catchment areas as a result of federation?
No. The expansion of the town may require a review in due course but there are currently no changes planned for admissions in September 2011 or beyond.

What is the timescale for any changes?
This is a straightforward question with a rather complex answer.

School improvement of the kind that embeds real and substantial change usually takes time. It is often the culmination of many relatively minor adjustments to the curriculum or ways in which students are helped to learn effectively. For example, the recent award of Artsmark Gold to Longsands reflects work that has gone on for the past six or more years.

The Partnership Improvement Plan (considered by the Governing Body in early September) sets out a programme of key developments over a 2-3 year period, and that may well be the most appropriate timescale to have in mind.

Having said that, our intention is that the Partnership should start to make a difference from its early days even if this is more about how things are done or achieved rather than what is given priority. What the Partnership has already brought is access to a further pool of knowledge and skills, together with the ability to represent the interests of students in the locality far more effectively.

How can I obtain more information?
Further information and updates will be provided to parents and the community via our newsletters and the Partnership website. You are also welcome to contact one of the Colleges directly if you require further information.