County council prepares for Academy
Warwickshire County Council is pressing ahead with plans to open an Academy in Nuneaton.
Following approval by the county council’s Cabinet to replace Alderman Smith and Manor Park schools with a flagship Academy, a Minister in the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) met two parents from the town and local MP Bill Olner to discuss the proposal.
The County Council is continuing work, supported by DCSF officials, with the sponsor North Warwickshire & Hinckley College, to prepare for the Academy opening in September 2010 and ensure it is ready to deliver a high quality and inspirational learning experience to raise standards, nurture talent and transform lives.
Councillor Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Children, Young People and Families, said: “We have had no indication following his meeting with parents and Mr Olner that the Minister has changed his view on the establishment of the Academy.
“The County Council and the College remain committed to the Academy. We believe it is in the best interests of young people in Nuneaton, and we will continue to work with the DCSF and the College on preparing for the Academy.
“However, parents and Mr Olner should understand the decision to close Manor Park and Alderman Smith schools is subject to the Academy going ahead. That decision to open an Academy will be taken by the Minister and not the county council.”
The Cabinet’s decision to close two existing schools and to replace them with an Academy followed a six week public consultation where stakeholders including students, staff, parents and residents were invited to put forward their views.
The proposed Academy will be sponsored by ‘outstanding’ North Warwickshire & Hinckley College, and will be developed on the current Alderman Smith school site. It is scheduled to open next September in existing buildings. The brand new school building, equipped with first rate facilities, is planned to be completed by September 2013.