Boston Catholic college to close

A Catholic college in Lincolnshire which has suffered low pass rates at GCSE level is to close and join a federation of schools in the town.

St Bede's Catholic Science College will become part of a group of four other schools in Boston.

It will merge with Haven High Technology College in 2011 in a move backed by the county council and the Diocese of Nottingham.

Officials said a Catholic religious education would stay on the curriculum.

The Boston Witham Schools' Federation currently encompasses Haven High Technology College, Boston Carlton Road Primary School and Boston Staniland Primary and Nursery School.

Edward Hayes, the Nottingham diocesan director of education, said: "The diocese is pleased that a decision has been agreed regarding the provision of secondary education for the Catholic community in Boston following the requirement from the Department for Education to close the school.

"The provision of Catholic trustee governors and provision for religious education has been guaranteed and we look forward to working in partnership with the federation."

Councillor Patricia Bradwell, who is responsible for children's services in Lincolnshire, said: "All parties were determined to agree a solution that ensures sustainable, high quality education for all secondary pupils.

"Over the coming weeks and months, the members of the Interim Executive Board and the governing body of the Boston Witham Schools' Federation will be working closely to ensure a smooth and effective transition for staff and students across the whole federation.

"This will involve the appointment of a new head of school for the St Bede's site whose task will be to work with staff to ensure that all students at St Bede's continue to receive a good education."