Bradford College

Appleton Academy

Plans for Appleton Academy Move a Step Nearer

A formal expression of interest submitted by Bradford College and Bradford Council for the College to be the sponsor of the new Appleton Academy has been approved by the Government’s Department for Children, Schools and Families.

 
The approval means the project will now move to the feasibility stage. This will involve developing the mission, curriculum and organisation of the Appleton Academy, as well as plans for the new building. As part of this process the College will be consulting with a wide range of stakeholders.

The creation of the Appleton Academy will replace Wyke Manor School and High Fernley Primary School with a new 3 -16 all-through Academy, providing an exciting and inspirational learning environment. Once approved, the new school will open in existing buildings in 2009 and move into its new accommodation by September 2011.

The Appleton Academy will specialise in Science and Sport. Bradford College has a track record in Science stretching back 175 years.  The College has recently made significant investments in Sports facilities and partnerships which will enhance the Academy’s curriculum.

Michele Sutton, Bradford College’s Principal and Chief Executive, said:  “We’re delighted with the announcement that Bradford College’s expression of interest to be the sponsor of the Appleton Academy has been approved! We’re excited about the potential to work together with staff, pupils, their families and the community to create an Academy that Wyke will be proud of.”

Michele continued:  “We envisage we will build a state of the art building to house the Academy.  This will provide a highly motivational and aspirational environment to learn and work.   Ultimately this will bring about an improvement in the standards of achievement for young people and the regeneration of the Wyke Community.”

 Helen Jones, Head Teacher of High Fernley, commenting on the exciting partnership said:  “We’re delighted High Fernley Primary School has the opportunity to develop an exciting partnership with Wyke Manor, Bradford College and the Dixons City Academy.  This will create an Academy which will be at the heart of the Wyke Community.”

 Dwayne Saxton, Head Teacher of Wyke Manor added:  “The proposed Academy represents a fantastic opportunity for us to build on the many improvements which have been made at Wyke Manor in recent years.”