New primary academy for Longford

Work on a brand new primary academy in Longford will begin in July.

The state of the art academy and nursery will be opening in September 2017 and run by Gloucestershire Learning Alliance (GLA), a local multi academy-trust made up of Bishop’s Cleeve Primary Academy, Rowanfield Junior School and Springbank Primary.

Work is already beginning on the site, with a ground breaking ceremony on 1st July including children from the multi-academy trust’s existing schools.

The GLA was given approval earlier this year to sponsor the new primary academy with 210 places, complete with nursery, to open at Whittington Park in Longford.

Local people are being asked what they would like their new academy to be like to help the GLA develop the future direction of the school and to develop its own identity. An extensive consultation will begin in September, but anyone is welcome to contact the headteacher for enquiries or to comment on the new school via head@longfordpark.org.uk

A new website is also available featuring all the details for the new academy including artist impressions of the beautifully designed building and grounds, and how to apply for places ready for the launch in 2017. Visit www.longfordpark.org.uk or the facebook page via the link on the website.

Applications for places will be accepted in late 2016, with a number of information events planned to ensure that parents know about the fantastic opportunities on offer at Longford. Further details will be available through the website and facebook.

Liam Hinkley, launch headteacher for Gloucestershire Learning Alliance, said: “I am thrilled to be part of this unique opportunity. This is the start of an exciting journey for local families and I am keen that the whole community joins us as we develop and fulfil our launch vision: get ready to learn, get ready to grow.”

Cllr Paul McLain, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The county council has been working with the housing developer and the GLA and is over seeing the build of the school. It’s vital there are enough school places for families moving into the new development and we look forward to the new school playing an important part in the local community

EG Carters have been appointed as the contractors for the build and work is due to completed in summer 2017.

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk