A STRUGGLING boys' school is set to merge with a nearby girls' school to create Medway's first independent academy.

Council officers have recommended that Temple School in Cliffe Road, Strood, should close and its pupils move to Chapter School in Carnation Road, Strood.

The merger will create an academy funded directly by the Government and through sponsorship.

Members of Medway Council's cabinet will consider the proposals at their meeting on September 25.

If they are approved, full consultations will follow.

A council statement said: "It is currently the only realistic route to getting a brand new school with vastly enhanced facilities, bringing huge benefits and opportunities to all students in Strood."

The new academy, which is expected to open in September, 2009, will have a roll of about 1,200 to 1,400 pupils.

If the plans go ahead, Medway Council is expected to become a co-sponsor of the academy, investing 25 per cent of its funding.

Cllr Les Wicks, cabinet member for children's services, said: "We are looking to the future to ensure all our young people have access to first-class facilities."

* See Monday's Medway Messenger for the full story.