Independent schools set to merge

HEMDEAN House Junior School in Caversham is set to merge with St Joseph’s College in Reading.

The move, which would take effect from the start of the next academic year in September, comes after the junior school announced it might close the girls’ senior department following a review of enrolment numbers and the school’s finances.

Both schools are independent and take day pupils of both sexes, Hemdean from age three to 11 and St Joseph’s from three to 18.

In a joint statement, they said: “Both parties believe this potential merger is in the best interests of the pupils and the schools, making them stronger together.

“It would have a positive impact for all pupils, providing enhanced opportunities by being part of a wider family of schools.

“Together, the schools would aim to retain the close personal attention they give to all pupils and ensure that every child can reach their academic potential.”

Both schools sites — the junior school in Hemdean Road and the college next to Reading University’s Whiteknights campus — would be retained.

Phil Wise, deputy chairman of Hemdean House’s board of governors, said: “We believe this planned merger would be a great opportunity and would provide a strong foundation for pupils to continue to flourish.

“The governors have been working hard to secure the school’s future and believe that St Joseph’s would be the ideal partner.

“The schools share similar aims and ethos and have a natural fit on many levels.”