New Dearne Valley academy aiming to raise standards

A DEARNE Valley secondary school has converted into an academy in a bid to become an “even better school”.

Sir Thomas Wharton Community College on Tait Avenue, Edlington,  converted to an academy in the Co-operative group on February 1.

Headteacher Mary McCorry said: “We are very proud that our college has joined an organisation which is committed to developing a dynamic and active co-operative schools movement in the UK.

“The decision to convert to an academy was not taken lightly and as we continue our strive to raise standards and achievement, we believe that academy status will support us in our endeavours to become an even better school.

“In an ever-changing educational landscape, this gives us greater autonomy and freedom to move forward in a way that best serves the needs of our students and equips them with the skills, qualifications and knowledge to succeed.”

Ms McCorry said that she hoped the school would remain at the heart of the community.

“We believe that our future success lies in the positive partnership between staff, parents, carers, students and governors and that together we can make Sir Thomas Wharton Community College a school to be proud of,” she said.

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