Plans to establish a new sixth-form college backed by Eton College have been given the green light in the West Midlands town of Dudley, sparking a heated debate about educational priorities.
Government gives final approval after review
The government confirmed on December 12 that its review of school spending has approved the Eton Star Academies sixth form for Dudley. The project, which had been paused since the last general election, will now proceed. It will be located on Stafford Street and is designed to accommodate up to 240 students.
Sir Hamid Patel CBE, chief executive of Star Academies, stated the trust aims to create a "world-class curriculum" with cutting-edge facilities. He emphasised a desire to work with local schools and colleges to ensure the academy benefits the wider educational landscape and contributes to the community and economy.
Local political opposition and support
The announcement has not been universally welcomed. The leader of Dudley's Liberal Democrats, Councillor Ryan Priest, launched a strong critique, arguing the investment is misplaced.
"Dudley does not need another FE college," Cllr Priest said. "What we need is proper investment in apprenticeships and vocational education that leads directly to jobs." He accused both the national Labour government and local Conservatives of being "out of touch" with the needs of young people in the area.
In contrast, Dudley's Labour deputy leader, Councillor Shaukat Ali, welcomed the decision. He stressed the importance of ensuring the admission criteria are flexible to help children from deprived areas and unlock their potential. "It is important those children are not left behind," he added.
Focus on community benefit and access
Dudley's Labour MP, Sonia Kumar, echoed the call for the school to deliver tangible benefits. She pledged to work with ministers, the council, headteachers, and parents to ensure the academy supports pathways for disadvantaged students and strengthens education in Dudley rather than destabilising existing provisions.
The core of the political dispute centres on whether a prestigious, academically-oriented sixth form is the optimal use of funds for Dudley, or if direct investment in vocational routes and apprenticeships would better serve the local youth and economy.
