Schools Minister agrees funding for Academies

10.55.15am GMT Mon 8th Mar 2010

• SCHOOLS Minister Vernon Coaker has approved the funding agreement for the Hampton and Twickenham Academies - meaning the existing schools are on course to be re-opened as academies in September.

The agreement confirms the decision taken by Richmond Council's Cabinet in December to transform the existing schools. The Council will now begin the redevelopment of both sites and, together with sponsor Kunskapsskolan, work with the schools to put in place the new teaching and learning models.

Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Culture on Richmond Council, said: "The funding agreement gives us the green light to turn our vision into reality, with both schools becoming academies in September. The academies programme has been over two years in the planning, and the Learning Schools Trust is now working with the staff at the schools to introduce a new approach to the curriculum and how students will learn. We will work with Kunskapsskolan and the architects to ensure that the design of the new facilities will fully support the educational model and introduce a stimulating and first-class environment."

Peje Emilsson, Executive Chairman of Kunskapsskolan Education, added:

"This is an important milestone in the development of Kunskapsskolan. We are proud to sponsor the Twickenham and Hampton Academies, and to introduce our model for personalised learning in the UK. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Richmond Council, with the common objective to provide the best possible education for the students."

Per Unckel, Governor of Stockholm and Chairman of The Learning Schools Trust, the UK charity that will operate the Academies, stated:

"It is with great pride we take on the responsibility of the two academies in Richmond upon Thames. I am convinced that Kunskapsskolan´s unique model for personalised learning, supported by the dedicated staff in the schools, will be successful and rewarding for our students."

Vernon Coaker, Schools Minister, in a letter to the Leader of Richmond Council, Cllr Serge Lourie, said:

"I am delighted with the progress of the projects and with the commitment shown by the sponsor, Kunskapsskolan, and by the support of your colleagues in the Authority.

"I am confident that the academies will be successful and popular schools and will do much to improve the opportunities for the young people of Richmond upon Thames."

Related Link:

• The Academies Programme