A school is looking forward to an 'exciting future' after joining a trust focused on the protection of rural schools across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Barnby and North Cove Primary School, in The Street, Beccles, has become part of the Consortium Multi Academy Trust.

Andrew Aalders-Dunthorne, chief executive of Consortium, says he is 'delighted' with the addition of the school and explained why the trust's work is so vital.

He said: 'When rural schools are supported and outward looking they can, and in many cases do, offer excellent, nurturing educational provision locally.

'Schools must be able to deliver quality provision and opportunities for the children that attend.

'A strength of our trust is that schools review themselves as a member of a family of schools – interconnecting, mutually supportive and sharing of resources and expertise.

'I very much welcome Barnby and North Cove to our family.'

Mr Aalders-Dunthorne added: 'The school is also a key community asset – in some cases being the only public building in a community.

'I strongly believe that any community asset, but particularly the village school, should be defended against closure.

'Once a bank, post office, pub or school closes in the area it is invariably lost forever and the community is worse off from its demise.'

The school recently opened a 'much needed' nursery as part of its ongoing development.

Little Acorns Nursery, for children aged three upwards, is being led by senior teacher Julie Pope.

Miss Pope said: 'The focus of the nursery is that all children have the very best start to their school life.

'It offers a seamless transition to the next stage at Barnby and North Cove Primary School.'

There are 13 spaces available at the nursery, which offers morning and afternoon sessions led by fully qualified early years teachers in small class sizes.

If you would like to arrange a visit to Little Acorns Nursery, contact the school office on 01502 476230 or email: office@barnbynorthcove.org

Have you got an education story for the Beccles and Bungay Journal? Get in touch by calling 01502 712060 or email amy.smith@archant.co.uk