A Telford school is set to be transformed into an academy within the next 12 months and forge links with a county grammar school.Outline proposals to turn Abraham Darby School, Ironbridge Road, Madeley, into an academy have been accepted by the Government’s children, schools and families department.

The multi-million pound scheme will involve developing links with Adams’ Grammar School, in Newport, and creating opportunities to share resources.

Christine Brown, Abraham Darby headteacher, said: “By sharing and learning from each other, we aim to raise aspirations by inspiring each and every student to reach their full potential.”

And it is hoped that within four years the Abraham Darby school will be knocked down and replaced on the same site with a new building, funded through capital investment under Telford and Wrekin Council’s Building Schools for the Future Programme.

Adams’ Grammar is also set to gain new buildings under the scheme.

The Haberdashers’ Livery Company, which has 300 years’ experience and expertise in education, is the sponsor for the academy – Adams’ Grammar is a Haberdashers’ Company school with technology college status.

Abraham Darby pupils will be supplied with a new uniform of a tie and blazer bearing the Haberdashers’ crest.

Each school will have a different specialism – Abraham Darby in performing arts and possibly business and enterprise, while Adams’ Grammar will specialise in technology and modern languages.

Pupils from the two schools will work together on a range of activities including music and drama.

There will also be pupil and teacher exchanges and leadership training.

The schools will also provide evening classes for adults and training and conference facilities.

Jim Richardson, Adams’ Grammar headteacher, said: “We will build on the strengths and experiences of both schools so our students become independent learners who are fully equipped to deal with the opportunities and challenges of adult life.”

By Lizzie Yates