Due to open its doors to students this Autumn, the West End’s new Excelsior Academy is taking shape before our eyes.
Excelsior, which has already emerged as a landmark on the Scotswood skyline, is getting set to open in September 2008. From that date 1,800 students from across the West End will have access to state-of-the art facilities and first-class learning opportunities at the Denton Road-based Academy.
“This is an exciting time for the Academy,” says Philomena Marshall, Excelsior’s Executive Principal.
“Excelsior students will have access to the highest level of specialist facilities including technology, sports, the arts and ICT as well the opportunity to study core subjects like Maths, English, and Science in a stimulating, supportive environment.”
A free and non-selective academy, Excelsior will be open to all children regardless of faith, with priority given to pupils from West Gate Community College and its feeder schools – with West Gate closing in summer 2008.
Backed by the Department for Education & Skills and sponsor Lord Laidlaw, the Academy will be home to four schools for 11 to 16 year-olds. With an overall focus on enterprise and entrepreneurship, each of the schools will also have its own specialism - from creative arts to health studies – and its own identity, entrance and classrooms.
Meanwhile, Excelsior College will cater for post-16s, offering a range of opportunities from vocational qualifications to GCSEs, AS and A levels. Students will also learn new skills by helping to manage retail and student banking activities within the Academy.
“Our aim is to create a community where achievement and success are promoted and celebrated,” said Executive Principal Philomena Marshall. “Not only will students enjoy learning and achieving, but they will leave the Academy with the skills to set them up for life.”
To find out more, visit
www.excelsiornewcastle.org.uk or write to Excelsior Academy, c/o Bridgewater, Delaval Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 6NR.
