The old Wye College buildings

by James Scott

jscott@thekmgroup.co.uk

Parents are pushing ahead with plans to create a comprehensive school in Wye village.

The committee, which includes a former teacher and a retired university professor, wants to create a 'centre of excellence' for 11- to 18-year-olds in the old Wye College campus.

Plans to apply to the Department for Education for a state-funded "free school" for around 600 pupils were announced in May, but there was not enough time to complete the submission.

The group now aims to submit the proposal next year with a view to opening the school in September 2013.

Chairman Margaret Williams, a former deputy head teacher, said: "As we make progress with this project we look forward to explaining to parents just why we believe that this school will revolutionise the educational experience of its pupils, as well as providing community benefit for local people.

"Our aim is to challenge the perception that only the academically gifted can achieve great things as we set up a school that will provide what we have chosen as our motto - Education for Life.

"There is still a lot of work do and we have to show there is a sufficient demand from parents. We're just interested in doing the right thing for the children of the area."

As part of the proposal, the committee will need to show evidence that there is a clear demand for the school.

Early consultation shows the plans have already gained the support of around 150 parents in the area.

If the application is successful, the group hopes to begin discussions with Imperial College about the use of its historic college buildings, currently being marketed for educational use.

Other members of the free school steering group include parents and grandparents, lawyers, architects and accountants.

For more information or to fill in a questionnaire go to www.wyefreeschool.co.uk.

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk.