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Views being sought on proposals to swap college with academy
THE PEOPLE of Eastbourne are being asked for their views on plans to create a state-of-the-art academy in the town.
Plans are afoot to replace Eastbourne Technology College in Brodrick Road with an academy, and sponsors behind the project are holding consultations next week.
Between November 9 and December 21, the academy sponsors, Sussex Downs College and East Sussex County Council, will hold a public meeting for parents, young people and members of the wider community to come along and find out more about what is proposed.
They will also meet with parents in the playgrounds of local primary schools as part of this process.
A consultation document and questionnaire will be distributed to a wide audience. There will also be an extensive consultation with staff.
At the same time as the academy consultation, East Sussex County Council will consult on the associated closure of ETC. This closure would only occur if the academy was established.
Dr John Blake, principal and chief executive of lead sponsor Sussex Downs College, said, "The college is pleased that the Government has supported the proposals for the academy.
"These consultation events will enable local people to learn more about our plans and about how the academy will affect them, their children, and the wider community.
"We strongly believe that the academy will enhance educational opportunities for young people in Eastbourne and we look forward to working with our partners and other key stakeholders in achieving this goal.
"We believe that the academy will be a major boost to the Eastbourne community. Now is the chance for local people to make their contribution."
Councillor David Elkin, East Sussex County Council's Lead Member for Learning and School Effectiveness, said, "This is the most important time in this process. We want to make sure we get this decision right, and that means speaking to as many people as possible: young people, parents, staff and members of the wider community.
"We want to hear your views on what you think of the proposals for the academy. I would encourage everyone to read the information given out, come along to the meetings, and most importantly, tell us what you think."
Visits to local primary schools have been arranged to enable parents/guardians to discuss and respond to the consultation process including Parklands Infant and Junior, Highfield Junior, Oakwood Primary and Hampden Park School.
A public meeting has also been arranged for December 1 from 6.30pm-8pm at Eastbourne Technology College.
It is planned for the academy to open in the school's existing buildings in 2010, with a target to open the new building in 2013.
The sponsors have already set out their plans around the ethos and values for the proposed Academy, namely to drive up standards and expectations for all students.
For more information on the academy consultation process and dates for the playground visits visit www.eastbourneacademy.org
For access to official documents on the possible closure of ETC visit the East Sussex County Council website at www.eastsussex.gov.uk
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Weather for Eastbourne
Sunday 12 February 2012
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