Aston University to set up multi-academy trust featuring jewellery training and mathematics schools
Aston University has been given the green light on plans to set up a multi-academy trust.
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The Birmingham-based university has received approval to establish the Aston University STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Education Academy.
It will consist of the existing Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy and Aston University Mathematics School, which is set to open to youngsters aged between 16 and 19 with a talent for Maths next September.
The multi-academy trust will also offer students the chance to receive training in jewellery skills at a Goldsmiths' Institute.
Professor Aleks Subic, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Aston University said: “This marks a significant milestone in our journey to transform and lead STEM education across the region.
“We have an unwavering commitment to nurturing regional talent, fostering innovation and creating opportunities that will benefit our community and region for generations to come.
“By establishing this trust, we reaffirm our leadership role in driving educational excellence and impact and contributing to the prosperity of the West Midlands.”
The regional director for education and the West Midlands Advisory Board approved the university’s application to sponsor a multi-trust academy in October, which will become official on January 31.
Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy will formally join the academy in April.
The academy will be based at the former National College for Advanced Transport and Infrastructure building, next to Aston University Engineering Academy and within the Birmingham Innovation Quarter, which the university acquired last year.
Daniel Locke-Wheaton, executive principal of the sixth form and engineering academy and Aston University Mathematics school, said: “The Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust will bring together all of our cutting-edge facilities to provide a learning environment that will equip all of our students to develop the skills they will need to thrive in modern higher education and working environments.
"It will provide an exceptional education to currently under-supported students in the West Midlands and will strengthen regional awareness of career opportunities available to young people regionally, specifically local communities around Aston University.”
