Inspired Learning Group (ILG) has acquired Shebbear College in north Devon from Methodist Independent Schools Trust.

Founded in 1841, the school an 85-acre independent day and boarding school that teaches pupils aged from four to 18.

ILG stated it will invest significantly in enhancing the school’s facilities, professional development and standards of teaching, and will expand its boarding provision.

ILG comprises 25 independent schools and nurseries, catering to 3,000 pupils in the UK. It has an advisory board chaired by David Tidmarsh, former headmaster of St Martin’s, Northwood, which includes Neil Roskilly, former chief executive of the Independent Schools Association.

Shebbear College’s head, Charlie Jenkins said: “Throughout our history, Shebbear College has striven to provide a community not just of learners but of people who care about each other which is why, with our shared values, Inspired Learning Group is the perfect partner to build further on our rich tradition of academic and co-curricular excellence.

“All of our decisions have been made with the best interests of our school community in mind, and I am excited that we are about to embark on this new chapter as part of the ILG family.”

Amit Mehta, chief executive of ILG commented: “We welcome Shebbear College into the Inspired Learning Group family and very much look forward to supporting the school in providing a stimulating and highly nurturing education that enables every pupil to thrive in an ever-changing global environment.

“Through being part of the ILG family, Shebbear College will benefit from the sharing of outstanding practice and the latest teaching techniques to help deliver the best possible teaching and learning for its pupils. Shebbear College is a wonderful addition to our family of schools, and we look forward to working closely with Charlie Jenkins and his dedicated team as the school enters an exciting new chapter.”