Lib Dems Welcome Proposals for a Beauchamp “Free School”

Following publication of Beauchamp's plans to open a 6th Form Free School, County Councillors Simon Galton, Jeff Kaufman and Dean Gamble requested a meeting with the chair of governors and head teacher at Beauchamp College to learn more of what is planned.

Simon Galton said: "The meeting was very helpful in gaining a better understanding of the proposal and how it could fit in proposals to change the age ranges of Oadby's schools but could also work alongside existing arrangements."

During the consultation earlier this year on age range changes, the issue of capacity at Beauchamp College 6th Form was one of the biggest concerns expressed by parents. Due to the popularity of the college, there is increasing demand for places, a demand that the college struggles to meet on its current site.

Dean Gamble said: "Having heard more information, we believe that these proposals have the potential to address issues of capacity. By expanding onto a new site, Beauchamp will be able to offer more students a high quality education with state of the art facilities."

Currently, the only process through which this expansion can be achieved is to apply to create a Free School. However, once built, this new school would operate as a part of the Lionhart Academy trust and would be run as a part Beauchamp.

Jeff Kaufman said: "We feel this is an exciting proposal which will enable Beauchamp to meet the needs and aspirations of young people in years ahead and we will be supporting their bid to achieve this."