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January, 2017 Issue 22
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New trust to run Yate Academy on verge of being revealed UNCERTAINTY surrounding the future of Yate International Academy and its Woodlands primary phase and nursery is due to come to an end with an expected announcement in January. Schools minister Lord Nash will reveal who will take over the running of the school after a re-brokering process triggered by the current operator, the Ridings’ Federation of Academies. A cash crisis disclosed by the federation led to the search for a new sponsor. The board of trustees, which also runs Winterbourne International Academy, said it faced a potential £1 million deficit. Yate and Winterbourne academies are still also trying to meet Ofsted demands to improve after poor inspection results. Two multi-academy trusts are in the running to take over the schools but it could mean the end of the Yate-Winterbourne partnership if each takes on just one of the academies.
Protest over town fire station plans Petition launched over removal of full-time staff from overnight duty PAGE 8
Top cop Chipping Sodbury policeman wins award PAGE11
Urban sprawl warning Protesters say new housing plans could see Yate and Chipping Sodbury merge PAGE 12
Last bus axed Councillor criticises changes to Southmead Hospital service PAGE 13
Going up in the world Getting ready for summer: Registration has opened for Yate’s Relay for Life fundraiser. The event, over the first weekend in July, will be aiming to beat the £56,000 raised in 2016. More, page 27.
Chipping Sodbury student wins trampoline gold PAGE 30