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Welcome to the website for the proposed Tunbridge Wells Academy

You may have already heard about the proposal to transform Tunbridge Wells High School (TWHS) into a brand new, Government-funded independent school within the state sector. Plans to open the Academy are progressing well.

The need for this Academy is simple – to transform a 20th century school into a 21st century one that can deliver a 21st century curriculum and learning environment for the Tunbridge Wells students. It represents an exciting opportunity to build on the recent educational achievement of TWHS and enhance the future opportunities for Tunbridge Wells’ students of all abilities. The project would mean substantial investment into state-of-the-art buildings and information technology for both Academy use and for the benefit of the whole community. It will be an inspiring place to learn, a place where the talents and abilities of every student will be recognised and nurtured. In short, it will enhance the lives and aspirations of the students that attend the Academy and provide a school that is at the heart of the Tunbridge Wells’ community.

The sponsors are currently working to develop the Academy’s Vision and Ethos that will guide the development and operation of the Academy. These will set the framework for the delivery of education and learning within an innovative curriculum model. Central to this is the concept of developing a school with a village feel to it, bringing together the best of home, leisure, school and workplace. The Academy's specialism will be science and engineering underpinned by a strong focus on technology and mathematics. The sponsors also intend that the Academy would be a centre of excellence for the development of business skills and enterprise.

The proposed Academy would open in September 2009 in existing but refurbished TWHS buildings, and would move into new, purpose built facilities from 2012.

You can read more about the Academy’s sponsors and why they are involved in the Tunbridge Wells Academy here. More information about Academies in general can be found on the DCSF (Department for Children, Schools and Families) website.

This website is operated by the Academy Project Team. It aims to keep you updated with the plans for the Academy including:

  • Information about the Academy including the opportunity to download the Academy’s plans and news as they develop

  • Dates for Academy consultation and information events including information on Kent County Council’s process to close the Tunbridge Wells High School

  • The Academy’s admissions policy and procedure

  • Answers to commonly asked questions about the Government’s Academy programme

We would like to hear your views on the proposed plans to open the new academy or about any questions you may have. You can do this via the Contact Us or the Feedback pages.