'Much-needed' sixth form set to open in Derbyshire town – as new school given green light by government

North Derbyshire University Academy, run by Redhill Academy Trust, will open its doors in Bolsover, providing much-needed post-16 education in the area.

This comes after the Department for Education has officially approved plans for the new sixth form on Friday, December 12.

Commenting on the decision, Andrew Burns, Chief Executive of Redhill Academy Trust, said: “It is fantastic news that the DfE has approved the North Derbyshire University Academy.

"This is a real investment in the local community and will offer great opportunities for our young people that, until now, have not been available to them. We look forward to working with our partners to make this vision a reality.”

The government’s decision comes after campaign by Natalie Fleet, MP for Bolsover, and her predecessor MP Mark Fletcher and local communities.

In a video shared on social media, Natalie Fleet, said: “I am so thrilled. This is what our kids deserve. We have fought for it and we got it. Thank you to everybody who has campaigned on this cause, this victory is yours."

The new built school will provide 400 places for 16 -19-year-olds to study in state-of-the-art facilities, opening up progression routes into higher education.

Commenting on the government decision, Matt Hall, Executive Headteacher, said: “The approval of North Derbyshire University Academy marks a transformative moment for Bolsover and the wider region.

"As part of Redhill Academy Trust, we are committed to raising aspirations, removing barriers, and opening doors to higher education for young people who deserve every opportunity to succeed.

"We are proud to have worked collaboratively to make this vision a reality, it will change lives for generations to come.”

“Our sincere thanks go to Bolsover MP Natalie Fleet and her predecessor Mark Fletcher for standing alongside us in our campaign to secure a sixth form for our young people.”