Gloucester academy a step nearer

Gloucester is a big step closer to having a new academy.

Schools Minister, Vernon Coaker, has given the go-ahead for the academy, which will replace Bishop’s College and Central Technology College.

The new Academy will have 1,050 places for pupils aged 11-16 and a 200 place 6th form and is sponsored by Prospects Education Services Ltd, as lead sponsor and Gloucestershire College, as co-sponsor.

Vincent McDonnell from Prospects Learning Services, says:

“We are truly delighted that the Minister has confirmed the Government’s support to our vision for the new Gloucester Academy.  As sponsors of the new Academy, both Prospects and Gloucestershire College are committed to working with the county council, both school communities and our local partners to ensure that we are providing students with the best possible start when we open in September 2010.”

Cllr Jackie Hall, Cabinet Member for Schools, says:

“The Expression of Interest (EoI) outlines broad proposals for the Academy and is part of the lengthy bureaucratic process that we have to undergo.  We are now entering another phase known as the feasibility stage, where the sponsors will consult with parents, pupils, staff and others to finalise the details of how the academy will be arranged and what courses will be offered.
“Government officials will look at the infrastructure that is needed and assess the likely amount of funding that will be required. We need to overcome this final hurdle before funding is released and I doubt we shall know the outcome from this until the end of May, early June.”

The Academy will open in September 2010, with the new building expected to be completed in 2013.