In a significant development for education in North Yorkshire, the sixth-form at Boroughbridge High School is set to close at the end of August. This decision comes in the wake of a prolonged decline in post-16 student numbers at the school.
Boroughbridge High School has experienced a steady drop in the number of students enrolling in its sixth form over recent years. This downward trend prompted a consultation in the autumn of 2021. Subsequently, in the spring of 2022, the federated governing board of Boroughbridge High School and King James’s School decided to temporarily suspend entries to the sixth form for two years starting from September 2022.
Earlier this year, on 9th January, a fresh consultation was launched to gather opinions on the future of the school’s sixth-form provision, accompanied by a public meeting to engage the community. Today, following a thorough review and the publication of statutory proposals, North Yorkshire Council has approved the permanent closure of the sixth form.
Amanda Newbold, North Yorkshire Council’s assistant director for education and skills, commented on the decision: “Over the past few years, a decline in post-16 pupil numbers at the school has made it more difficult to maintain viable sixth-form class sizes at Boroughbridge High School in terms of quality of experience, subject breadth and financial viability.
“We are ambitious for all our children and young people in North Yorkshire and try and do all we can to make sure that they receive high-quality education in schools and settings across the county.”
Despite the closure of the sixth form, there will be no changes to staffing at Boroughbridge High School. The school will continue to operate as usual, providing education for secondary school pupils.
The decision marks the end of an era for Boroughbridge High School’s sixth form, but the school remains committed to delivering excellent education to its remaining students.