Radley Schools Group has been created comprising three independent schools in Oxfordshire: Radley College in Abingdon, Chandlings Prep in Kennington and Cothill House near Wootton.

Five others make up the total of eight in the group: Barfield Prep in Farnham, Surrey; Beeston Hall School in Beeston Regis, Norfolk; Kitebrook Prep School in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire; Mowden Hall School in Bywell, Northumberland; and West Hill Park in Titchfield, Hampshire.

The group of eight teach 2,300 children across the country, 1,200 of whom are based in Oxfordshire.

On its website the school stated: “Radley College has always been a supporter of independent charitable education and has had close relationships with prep schools across the country throughout its history. This merger gives us a chance to be more directly involved in the sector, supporting it at a time of challenge and protecting the values that underpin what they, and we, do. We want and need prep schools to be strong and this merger gives us the opportunity to have a louder voice and a wider reach in the development of best educational practice for our children. The merger also gives us an exciting opportunity to build something distinctive and powerful in the world of independent education. Radley College is a full-boarding boys only 13-18 school and has no plans to change that model. Unlike other senior schools that might look to merge with prep schools simply to shore up their numbers, the primary purpose of this merger is not to ensure a pipeline of pupils for Radley but rather for the College to work with our prep schools to build something new and exciting as a Group. We believe that with our aligned values and shared history we can do that best together. The variety within the Group – in terms both of geography and the nature of the educational offer – widens its potential impact and influence on the sector. At a time of disruption and uncertainty, this merger provides a positive long-term strategic vision of a changing sector and an exciting platform for meaningful change.”

The Herald Series talked to some of the school leaders involved in the initiative. John Moule, warden of Radley College and Radley Schools Group, said: “We believe in the timeless and authentic values of charitable independent education.

“Through the strength and stability of a wider group, we are committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for all our pupils throughout their childhood.

“Blending the very best of tradition and innovation, we seek to develop young people of outstanding character and purpose.”

Radley Schools Group’s chief executive Andrew Ashton said: “Building on the success of each school, our group offers greater security and wider access to resource and expertise.

“We will have a louder voice in the independent sector at large and a wider influence in helping to shape the future of education for every child.

“Most importantly, we will, together, be a significant force for good providing the very best environment for our children and staff and developing thought leadership on issues of pastoral care, pedagogy and character education for generations of children to come.”

Chandling’s new head Adam Mallins said: “Radley Schools Group will open up huge opportunities for all our pupils and staff.

“This is a chance to build something truly extraordinary for Chandlings, guided by a shared vision and a deep commitment to every child’s growth, potential and wellbeing.

“Our goal is simple: to ensure that every child in our care is not just prepared for the future but inspired by it.”

After 150 years as a boarding school for boys aged eight to 13, Cothill will now cater to girls and day and flexi boarders.

A spokesperson said the school “celebrates exceptional academic results with pupils gaining entry to prestigious top boarding and day schools across the country”.

Head George May commented: “These are the most exciting developments in Cothill’s 150-year history.

“We are delighted that Radley recognises the shared values of resilience and purpose that underpin the educational provision at Cothill, and the commitment we have to a protected childhood, whilst preparing children for senior schools all around the UK.”