Halesowen College is teaming up with King Edwards VI College to form a new academy trust.

Local MP's Margot James and James Morris attended the launch of the new King Edward’s and Halesowen Colleges’ Academy Trust, which sees the two organisations join with Ridgewood High School.

Remley Mann, principal at King Edward VI College, said: "The Multi Academy Trust was formed in March 2015 when Ridgewood High School converted to academy status.

"Since then, the trustees have been developing the capacity of the trust and welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Halesowen College."

Clive Nutting, executive principal for the trust added: "Trustees determined they would adopt a strategic approach for growth and provision from the primary phase through secondary to higher education in the geographic areas in which the trust operates."

Keith Bate, principal of Halesowen College, is looking forward to working within the new trust.

He said: "We expanded on the mutual benefits for both colleges and future members of the trust in collaborating to deliver shared services drawing on the strengths.

"The governors have endorsed this initiative recognising the mutual benefits to be gained whilst at the same time strengthening the commitment to college independence."

In April Halesowen College joined six other West Midlands further education organisations to form the Black Country Colleges (BCC) Group.

The organisation will deliver high quality education that produces the skills provision to ensure continued economic growth in the region.

The BCC Group comprises the City of Wolverhampton College, Dudley College, Halesowen College, King Edward VI College, Sandwell College and Walsall College, who are all rated as good or outstanding by Ofsted, and with BMet Stourbridge as an associate partner.