Ministers back new Academy plan for Alumwell

A proposal to transform Alumwell Business and Enterprise College, Walsall, into an academy sponsored by E-ACT has been given the green light by ministers.

The College, in Primley Avenue, Pleck, which serves more than 900 students and includes a sixth form, will be sponsored by E-ACT, one of the leading education groups in England, which is currently responsible for 16 academies and a free school.

The group, led by former Schools’ Commissioner for England Sir Bruce Liddington, opened Willenhall E-ACT Academy in January, replacing the former Willenhall School Sports College.

Ministers from the Department for Education have signed a 'statement of intent' which officially starts the project to transform Alumwell College into an academy, subject to consultation, in September this year.

A project team is now being established which includes education and academy experts from E-ACT, together with officials from the Department for Education working closely with the local authority, the College and its governors.

Sir Bruce Liddington said: "We are delighted to be working with the college and other partners  to help transform Alumwell into an E-ACT-sponsored academy later this year. We'll be working closely with staff and students as the project progresses and we will be engaging in a consultation about our plans with all those interested in the future of the College. E-ACT is committed to ensuring academies move quickly to become centres of educational excellence, and we're really looking forward to working with everyone with an interest in the future plans for Alumwell."

Cabinet member for children’s services at Walsall Council, Councillor Rachel Andrew said: “We are committed to helping children and young people in Walsall reach their full potential. We look forward to working with this experienced sponsor to build on the improvements already made by the college to create an outstanding academy for existing and future generations of students.”