Plans to convert Thomas Rotherham College (TRC) into academy passed

Thomas Rotherham College (TRC) will join Inspire Trust on October 1 subject to the college’s governing body approving the decision to dissolve as an incorporated sixth form college.

Governors already voted in favour, seven to five, of becoming an academy and joining the trust at a meeting on July 2.

Last Thursday (July 13), the Headteachers’ Board, chaired by the Regional Schools’ Commissioner for the East Midlands and Humber, approved the application.

Principal, Dr Richard Williams, said conversion to academy status within Inspire Trust would happen on October 1, subject to the governing body’s final decision in September on dissolving as an incorporated sixth form college.

Dr Williams said: “Joining inspire Trust, if this decision is finally ratified, will enable TRC to have access to the financial benefits of academy status and trust membership, which can be used for the educational benefit of students. 

“We will also be able to share good practice and expertise with Oakwood, Sitwell Junior and we hope in future other schools who join the Trust. 

“Whatever transpires, it will be business as usual in terms of providing opportunities for students from all the schools across South Yorkshire and beyond who want to experience a sixth form college education at TRC.”