Headlands school wants to become an independent academy

Headlands School, which in 2004 saw a walkout by pupils, could be taken over by the United Learning Trust (ULT).

Honda, which owns a large factory on the outskirts of the town, would provide some financial backing.

The school's current head teacher, Jan Shaddick, said the move is a "very exciting opportunity for us".

"It's an opportunity to get some new resourcing and a new school and to provide for our students the very best that they deserve."

Ms Shaddick added that she had raised some concerns over the secondary school becoming independent.

'Passionate interest'

"The general reservations about academies are down to the lack of accountability to local authority because they are independent schools and around the governing body and community and parental representation.

"I've been given very reassuring responses by ULT."

Dan Hanson from United Learning Trust said Honda's involvement in the academy was down to the firm's "passionate interest in education".

"They have a big commitment to Swindon, they are a major employer and they want to work in partnership with education professionals... to ensure they have the right people for the future."

Mr Hanson added over the next year ULT would conduct feasibility studies and produce plans which would be presented to the secretary of state for education.