Merton Council is considering changing the way secondary education is provided to help drive up standards and encourage more students to study in the borough.

At last night’s Cabinet meeting, members agreed to consult on proposals that sixth forms should be established at the four of the eight schools that don’t currently cater for pupils up to the age of 19.

Under these proposals, the age range would be extended at Rutlish School and Ricards Lodge High School and a federated sixth form developed between the two institutions on both sites. Bishopsford Community School and Raynes Park High School would cater for students from 11 to 19 years of age by working with external partner organisations.

The recommendations were made after an independent review of secondary schools commissioned by Merton Council.

Cabinet member for Children’s Services, Councillor Debbie Shears said: “Merton Council is responding to the needs of the community and is looking at ways of giving parents more choice. For far too long, Merton has been regarded as second class for its secondary provision. We expect and are determined that Merton should deliver first class secondary provision for our children.

We are committed to providing excellent secondary education for 14 to 19 year olds in the borough and believe that establishing sixth forms could help achieve this and drive up standards.”