‘Today signifies a new day’ for students and staff at Whitehaven Academy after securing a new school sponsor.
Today, Cumbria Education Trust has been confirmed by the Secretary of State as the new sponsor of The Whitehaven Academy following a resolution that was passed by CET’s Board of Trustees.
Copeland’s MP, Trudy has welcomed the news.
Mrs Harrison, said: “This is a brilliant news day for The Whitehaven Academy, at long last we are finally seeing the bright light in what can only be described as a very dark tunnel.
“Today signifies a new day for The Whitehaven Academy with a sponsor who I am personally excited about, the security of a new school being built, and an education that our students deserve to ensure their bright futures are realised in Copeland.”
The DfE is making a substantial capital investment, to give a much-needed fresh start for all at The Whitehaven Academy.
In a letter to parents, Headteacher Warren Turner said: “I am extremely pleased that we are going to be part of CET’s family of schools and I am confident that staff, students and parents will see this decision as a positive outcome.
“I am determined to ensure that the young people who attend The Whitehaven Academy have access to an improving education and I know that Cumbria Education Trust is committed to the academy and education provision in Cumbria. We will benefit greatly from this new and exciting partnership.”
Secretary of State for Education, Damien Hinds, said: “I know Trudy is passionate about education, ensuring that young people across her constituency get the best start in life.
“She has been a strong advocate against the running of Whitehaven Academy by the Bright Tribe Trust. Standing up for concerns of the pupils and parents involved.
“It is thanks to her campaigning that the school is now going to be taken over by the Cumbria Education Trust ensuring a bright future ahead.”
Speaking about the announcement, Lorrayne Hughes, Chief Executive of Cumbria Education Trust said: “I am really looking forward to welcoming The Whitehaven Academy into the Trust. It seems to have been a long journey to get to this point, but we are nearly there now. I am hopeful that conversion will take place in November, CET will continue to work closely with the school until then.”
“Our first priority will be a relentless focus on school improvement to ensure that every young person can reach their potential. We will be looking to raise aspirations so that all students will strive to ‘be the best they can be’ - the Trust’s motto. The support we have received from the DfE and Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) will ensure that we are able to continue on the improvement journey with pace.”
“I would also like to thank our key partners including West Lakes Teaching School Alliance, Western Lakes Teaching Alliance and the Local Authority for all their help and continued support.”
