Ringwood School could soon be joining a new multi-academy trust which would include The Burgate School in Fordingbridge, The Arnewood and Eaglewood schools in New Milton and Priestlands School in Lymington.

The Department for Education wants academies to work in groups of at least 10 schools by 2030.

A spokesperson for the group, said: “The creation of a new trust is something that has been under discussion for a while.

“All the schools agree it is a natural development and will formalise our already close working relationships.

“Larger trusts allow the sharing of good practice, expertise, experience and other assets in a closer and more cost-effective way.

“Being close geographically, the schools enjoy similar benefits but also share similar challenges.

“Plans are at an early stage, but already there is a shared vision that puts the education of students within their communities at the heart of the proposal.

“We will continue to communicate with parents and other stakeholders as the plans progress and a timetable is created.”

Ringwood School is a co-educational secondary school and sixth form with around 1,550 pupils.

The Burgate School and Sixth Form educates those aged between 11 and 18 and has around 1,100 pupils and students.

The Arnewood School is a mixed secondary school and sixth form with over 1,000 pupils, and neighbouring Eaglewood School is an alternative provision school for children who find it difficult to cope in mainstream education.

Priestlands School is a co-educational secondary school and has around 1,250 pupils.