PLANS to open a new £30 million Academy in Birkenhead will be put to Wirral Council’s ruling cabinet this week, following the recommendation of a Government report.
A site for the new Superschool, which would offer educational facilities to rival the top schools in the country, has yet to be decided but will be well placed for both sets of pupils.
The new Superschool will primarily serve communities in south and central Birkenhead, to serve current and future Rock Ferry High School and Park High School students.
The Council and the Government are also committed to improving the quality of secondary school provision for pupils in north Birkenhead.
Last year the fee-paying Birkenhead High School for girls announced it planned to the country’s first academy offering education for girls from three to 18 by becoming an academy – eliminating the fees.
Wirral’s Cabinet will meet on November 6 to discuss the latest proposal, following which there will be a period of consultation with key stakeholders.
Park High Headteacher Steve McMahon, said: "This is the very best news for students and the wider community of Birkenhead, Wirral and beyond. Our school has a long and proud tradition and, in recent years, we have been increasingly successful.
"I see the Academy proposal as a fantastic reward for all our hard work and achievements and, through this move, Birkenhead would secure one of the very best schools in the country.
Peter Bennett, Headteacher of Rock Ferry High School, said: "Under these proposals, Rock Ferry High School pupils will continue to enjoy a first rate education. The size of the investment will offer incredible opportunities, both to pupils and to staff. Only the best is good enough for the pupils of Rock Ferry High School.
"The new Superschool would be second to none. It would offer the finest facilities available in the country and the best possible educational opportunities. I believe the proposal is richly deserved by our pupils and would transform education in Birkenhead."
Frank Field MP for Birkenhead said: "It’s the most exciting proposal that has come Birkenhead’s way in my 30 years as MP.
"Future generations will condemn us rightly if we don’t grab these proposals with both hands and I’m pleased that the Council have already begun to develop them."
Cllr Phil Davies, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Lifelong Learning, added: "The proposal is huge news for the area with £30 million of investment to give youngsters from Birkenhead the very best opportunities in the years ahead.
"We hope it will drive up aspirations, standards and achievement, setting the benchmark for what can be achieved in urban communities."