The scheme for Castledown School in Ludgershall, would be government-funded but sponsored by Wellington College, an independent school in Berkshire.

The college would invest time and expertise in the running of the school.

The Department for Education and Skills (DfES) has allowed Wiltshire County Council and Castledown to develop proposals for the innovative scheme.

'Exciting project'

The project would include a sixth form and boarding facilities for children in care.

Castledown's chairman of governors, Mark Connolly, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity, not only for the school but the community as a whole.

"Academy status will enable Castledown to provide a much broader and exciting curriculum than could have been hoped for under present arrangements."

Dr Anthony Seldon, headmaster at Wellington College added: "I am truly excited by this project as are the governors at Wellington College.

"Both the college and Castledown have a lot to offer each other and I hope we can play our part in moving Castledown to even higher levels of achievement than it has already reached."