The Diocese of Salisbury, Bryanston School and Wiltshire Council, sponsors of the development of a new Academy in Salisbury, have received official government approval. Ed Balls, Secretary of State for the Department of Children, Schools and Families, confirmed that the academy bid for 11-19 year olds will go into its next phase, a feasibility study. 

The new Academy will bring together the strengths of three organisations. The core values of the Church of England, Bryanston School’s committed approach to learning excellence, and access to Wiltshire Council’s wide breadth of services will all feature strongly. The three sponsors expressed a desire to work closely together to create a 21st century centre for learning and community. 

The Bishop of Salisbury, Dr David Stancliffe, said today, “We are delighted to hear the good news that our bid to move forwards with an Academy project in west Salisbury was agreed by ministers.  We are looking forward tremendously to starting work with our partner sponsors, Bryanston School, in Blandford Forum, and Wiltshire Council, to plan for the new Academy to open in September 2010 in succession to Salisbury High School.” 

He added, “Our Director of Education Chris Shepperd has visited the school to meet with the current headteacher, Mr Brian Eales, and he is fully committed to working with us to bring forward the best from the existing school and use the new government investment to enable us to offer a broader curriculum for his young people.  There are a busy few months ahead of us but we are all keen to make a real difference to the education we can offer in west Salisbury.” 

Sarah Thomas, Head of Bryanston, expressed her pleasure that the project was moving forward.  “We’re delighted to be involved in this exciting project and very much look forward to working with experienced Academy Sponsors towards a successful future in West Salisbury.”

Jane Scott, leader for Wiltshire Council and Carolyn Godfrey, Director of Children's services for Wiltshire Council are delighted about the recent announcement from the DCSF about the proposed new Academy. 

“Together with the other sponsors, significant preparatory work has already been undertaken and this welcome news will now enable all the partners to develop exciting and innovative plans for the new Academy planned to open in September 2010. This is a marvellous opportunity for the young people and staff of Salisbury High". 

ENDS

For more information, contact: 

Chris Shepperd, Director of Education, Diocese of Salisbury

01722 482420, 07966 432610, chris.shepperd@salisbury.anglican.org