A CHEPSTOW school is facing a more secure future thanks to a new partnership with a Cheltenham school.

St John's-on-the-Hill Prep School has teamed up with Dean Close School following recent years of financial burdens that have cast an uncertain shadow over its 222 pupils, aged between three months to 13-years-old.

The new arrangement between the schools will broaden the base of Dean Close while providing a stronger financial position for St John's, giving greater security in the future without an adverse effect on the family scale and pastoral focus of the school.

Headmaster, Mr Jonathan Lancashire said: "St John's is a well-regarded preparatory school with many values in common with Dean Close: a charitable foundation, full co-education, a belief in all-round education and the development of character.

"Now that the financial burdens that have overshadowed the school have been removed, we are confident that it has a great future, with its proud traditions, excellent teaching, strong support staff and loyal families."

Parents of the school received a letter on Friday telling them of the acquisition.