Welwyn Garden City school undergoes transformation
Sir Frederic Osborn School headteacher Jed Whelan. Picture: Danny Loo - Credit: Archant
Sir Frederic Osborn School in Welwyn Garden City is to start the formal process of transforming into an academy and will also receive additional funding to update its facilities.
Headteacher Jed Whelan has written to all parents and carers to share the news of the school’s “journey of improvement”.
The Department for Education agreed the sponsorship of Sir Frederic Osborn School by the Alban Academies Trust (ATT) on December 19.
Mr Whelan said: “The AAT has been set up by Sandringham School, an outstanding school in St Albans.
“The sponsorship with them will ensure that both schools work closely together as part of the Multi Academy Trust.
Sandringham School headteacher Alan Gray. Picture: Fraser Whieldon - Credit: Archant
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“The sponsorship element of this agreement will allow us to access additional funds to bring about further school improvements. “The relationship will help to raise standards and will provide increased opportunities for staff and student development.
“Already the AAT has been working to secure additional funds to help us improve the fabric of our building.
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“Over the next few weeks we are hoping to finalise details for improving our window walling, ICT resources and reception area. “This reflects our vision to create a mature and purposeful educational environment where students of all abilities can learn and thrive.”
The intention is for Sir Frederic Obsorn School to reopen as The Ridgeway Academy on the existing Herns Lane site on September 1 this year.
Over the next few months the school will begin the formal process to becoming an academy.
The Ridgeway Academy will have a new uniform, badge and vision statement.
Mr Whelan has stressed that financial assistance will be given to all current parents/carers of youngsters already at the school towards the costs of the new uniform.
He added: “I do hope that this decision provides reassurance and confidence that we are determined to move our school forward and that the community of East Welwyn Garden City will have an academy of which it can be proud of.
“The AAT led by Alan Gray, headteacher of Sandringham School.
“This school is recognised as being one of highest performing mixed comprehensives in the country.
“We believe that working with them will be a means for us to ensure our students maximise their potential.”
