Hampton and Twickenham academies to build sixth forms (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Hampton and Twickenham academies to build sixth forms

4:51pm Friday 27th January 2012 in News By Christine Fleming

Two academies have won ministerial approval to build new sixth forms.

The Learning Schools Trust (LST) announced there would soon be extra post 16 provisions, with places available at Twickenham Academy and Hampton Academy as early as September 2012.

Sue Demont, principal of Hampton Academy said a consultation with parents, students and staff had shown overwhelming support to create sixth forms.

She said: “As our overall results at 16 improve in quantity and quality, more students want to continue to excel in a smaller setting and use our distinct approach that develop those personal skills and independent approach to learning.”

Nick Jones, principal of Twickenham Academy, added the developments represented real alternatives for students and an opportunity to continue studying where they were.

He said: “We are already working with a range of national and local businesses to ensure that the courses we offer in IT and digital media meet the commercial standards and skills expected. “Furthermore, in sport, Twickenham is ideally placed to offer this sort of experience.”

Both academies will focus sixth form provision around their areas of strength and specialism. Twickenham Academy will focus on digital technologies and sport with a range of related complementary A-levels and professional qualifications offered and Hampton Academy will concentrate on performing arts and science.

There will be a one year Foundation programme for students who have not yet achieved five or more A*-C grades at GCSE at both educational facilities and provision for students to have the opportunity of long term placements working one day a week in industry, business and creative sectors.