University Academy to open in Birkenhead next month (From Wirral Globe)

University Academy to open in Birkenhead next month

10:40am Thursday 23rd December 2010 in News By Craig Manning

A UNIVERSITY Academy replacing two Wirral schools will open its doors next month.

Situated on the sites of Park High School and Rock Ferry High school, it will take in around 1100 students from both schools.

It will initially occupy the sites of the two predecessor schools. But in September it will come together on the former Park High School site with extra bus services provided for students.

All students will take part in a special transition programme. Those currently in Year 10 will continue with their GCSE and other exam courses under guaranteed and protected timetables so that their studies are not disrupted.

Academy Principal, Steve McMahon, said: “Everyone who is part of our Academy – students and staff – will challenge themselves and each other to achieve ambitious targets in every aspect of our performance.

"We will have consistently high expectations and we will challenge and support every student to become the very best they can be by developing their self-belief, raising their aspirations and supporting them to achieve their full potential."

Birkenhead MP Frank Field, the Academy's chair of governors, said: "I welcome this huge opportunity to help shape Birkenhead’s new school and the wider debate.

"I intend this appointment to be just the next step in the long journey to ensure that what Birkenhead offers to young people is second to none in the entire country.

"The strategic partners will work together with the lead sponsor the University of Chester and support the University Academy they include; the University of Liverpool, Birkenhead Sixth Form College, Wirral Metropolitan College and the Wirral Local Authority.

Cllr Sheila Clarke, Wirral's cabinet member for children’s services and liifelong Learning, said: "This is a really exciting time for students and parents in Wirral.

"We want every child and every student in Wirral to achieve their potential and the Academy will be a catalyst for the next generation of young people to help them realise their dreams and compete in the global workplace."