TWO schools in Worcester and one in Droitwich have joined a multi-academy trust to create a 'family' of seven schools.

Northwick Manor Primary School - which was the most over-subscribed school in Worcestershire for this year's intake - has become an academy and joined the Rivers CE Academy Trust.

Cranham Primary, in Warndon, and St Peter's First School in Droitwich both also became academies and joined the trust this term.

The trust is now made up of seven primary and first schools, all rated either good or outstanding by Ofsted, in Droitwich, Worcester, Great Witley, Cutnall Green and Kidderminster.

Kate Brunt, the Trust's CEO, said a multi-academy trust offered a schools-led system which would give schools the power to drive forward the changes they wanted to see.

She said: "I think there will be hurdles but the national research is showing that successful MATs are the way forward.

"As long as we have shared visions, values and all want the best regarding teacher and learning collaboration, sharing successes and sharing data.

"I think it's really important, sharing the good and the bad and how we work together."

Staff from the seven schools met together for the first time on Thursday, September 1 for a training and team building day.

They worked together on artwork focused on the trust's motto Love Learn Live, which will be displayed in all the schools.

The teachers also collaborated on singing, relaxation techniques for pupils and a fitness programme.

Mrs Brunt, executive principal, said: "We have all had a fantastic training day.

"I think if you speak to our heads and staff they are buzzing.

"They know it's a school-led system so let's do something about this opportunity.

"I think our teachers worked really collaboratively in year groups today, rather than in schools.

"All the staff are excited."

Jackie Castle, head of school, at St Clement's Primary said: "The day was very successful due to the enthusiasm, skills and commitment of all the staff and we are excited to be able to display artwork, not only from pupils, but also created by academy staff in the Rivers family of schools."

The Rivers CE Academy Trust first brought together St Clement’s CE Primary School, in Worcester, Cutnall Green CE First and Heronswood Community Primary School, in Kidderminster.

Great Witley Primary joined in April 2016.