HEADTEACHERS and governors have discussed how they can work together as local authorities cut budgets.

A conference held at St Aidan's Academy was attended by representatives from nursery, primary and secondary schools across the borough of Darlington to discuss how they can strengthen ties and share experiences.

The schools are working with education experts Avec Partnership, to draw together the range of expertise that exists in schools and governing bodies as support from the LEA reduces.

Head teachers in the borough have been working together for more than three years.

Avec School Services director Julie Sowerby told delegates: "This partnership is being watched very closely in the region; you already have a great reputation."

Nick Blackburn, head teacher of Heathfield Primary School, said: "Collaboration is a critical skill for heads now.

"We are now a commonwealth operating in a climate of trust and support, looking beyond our school boundaries and immediate community."

Darlington Borough Council's director of people's Murray Rose told the conference the council was in a changing world.

He said: "My role is now limited; I have influence but no control. It is now about mutual support and collaboration and the most important thing is that the children of Darlington get the very best outcome and stay at the forefront of our thinking."