New purpose-built sixth form opens in Droylsden

Tameside's first sixth form in a state comprehensive 11-18 school was officially unveiled last week, ushering in a new era of academic excellence.

Laurus Ryecroft Sixth Form sees an expansion of the existing secondary school building to include brand new state-of-the-art learning facilities and it's own refectory.

The new education establishment opened its doors to the first cohort of A Level students at the start of this month, promising a 'happy, caring and purposeful' environment.

A launch event was held on Thursday 21 September, with keynote speeches from television and radio presenter Katie Thistleton and Higher Education Academy fellow Dr Martyn Edwards - both of whom are former Tameside students.

Both speeches offered students an inspiring example of how many options there are after sixth form to get into your desired field of work, with an emphasised ideology that there is no 'one-size-fits-all'. 

Stephanie Bridge, Head of Sixth Form, addressed the college's 'high expectations' for students in their care.

"We don't think there's anything elitist about our vision," she said.

"What we do think is elitist is the thought that only privately educated students have access to an education of this kind.

"We don't believe that an academic curriculum is enough, we believe that going beyond the initial learning to develop a wide variety of knowledge, skills, attitudes and habits is really important for students to ultimately open the door to the future of their choice."

Three students at the sixth form have been successful in their applications to The Model Law Commission. They secured three out of 80 places on the programme and will be travelling to London on an all-expenses paid trip this weekend.

Another pupil, Khadija, recently enjoyed a residential weekend at the UK's prestigious Cambridge University delving into studies of the Enigma Code.

The Droylsden sixth form's cohort currently consists of 35 'Laureates' - with six who attended secondary education externally - however it was highlighted that they are eager to increase the number of external applicants in future years.

An open evening will be held on Thursday 16 November from 6-8:45pm for prospective students to view the purpose-built space and meet the centre's dedicated, passionate staff members.