10:47am Tuesday 9th February 2010
HUNDREDS of people are expected to have their say on proposals for an NHS-sponsored school academy over the next two weeks.
The NHS plans to put £500,000 into the North Stockton Academy, which will have a science specialism and health and well-being theme.
The academy, which will replace Blakeston School Community Sports College and Norton School Humanities College, will cost more than £16m to build.
A series of public consultations started last week and so far more than 150 people have taken an interest.
It is the first time a primary care trust has been the lead sponsor of an academy.
Stockton College Consortium, involving both Stockton Sixth Form College and Stockton Riverside College, will be co-sponsors, along with Stockton Borough Council.
Celia Weldon, director of corporate development at NHS Stockton-on-Tees, said the process is in the early stages and a lot needs to be decided.
"There have been a lot of positive responses but also some concerns," she said. "This process is all about finding out what people like and don’t like.
"In Stockton we have worked well with the local authority for a long time and we have a good history with them.
"We have spoken to parents and children at the schools affected and tried to answer all of their questions."
Concerns raised so far are said to include school transport, uniforms, building design and how pupils due to take exams will be affected.
Mrs Weldon added: "The NHS has decided to put money into this academy as we have a responsibility to promote health and well-being.
"Health is a big issue in this area so this is good opportunity to address problems."
"There is a lot to be decided and hopefully people can help us with the plans."
Parents and staff at the two schools are being asked to give their opinion on the proposals.
If the project is given the go-ahead, the 1,050-place academy, which would be built using Building Schools for the Future funding, would open in September.
Students would move into the new facility, off Norton Road, in September 2013.
The consultation runs until February 18. For details visit stocktonacademy.org.uk
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