A MEETING of parents of the two Poole schools consulting on federation showed strong support for the joint headteacher.

Around 120 parents attended the meeting at Canford Heath First School, which is likely to join Canford Heath Middle under executive head Sue Pelham, if parents agree.

The Borough of Poole's first federated school aims to pull the middle school out of special measures, after it failed its Ofsted inspection.

First school head Mrs Pelham, now consultant head managing both schools in Learoyd Road, who has seen her school gain an outstanding rating, was applauded by parents at the end of the meeting.

"We support this proposal," said Cllr Sandra Moore, a governor of the first and middle schools.

"The best news of all is that Sue Pelham will be the new headteacher of both schools.

"Given her proven outstanding leadership, Canford Heath Middle is unlikely to stay in special measures for very long - after all, we share the same children."

Inadequate leadership and management were among reasons the middle school was put into special measures. However, borough education staff believe they should be able to turn it around in a year.

Federation would mean one governing body and teachers able to work across both schools to improve learning.

Letters have gone out to parents of all Canford Heath first and middle school pupils, who have six weeks to make their views known.

Surgeries will be held on May 8 at 3pm at the first school and at 5pm on May 21 at the middle school for parents to ask questions and the decision will be made after consultation closes on June 16.