A NEW school for children living on a housing development in Hampshire will open in two years time, it was announced today

The University of Winchester has won permission to establish a new primary academy at Barton Farm.

Ministerial approval has been given for the university to establish an academy trust which will develop plans for the primary school with a view to it opening in September 2016.

“I am delighted that the University has the opportunity to sponsor the new academy at Barton Farm,” commented Professor Joy Carter, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Winchester.

“Our ambition is to create an academy which will be both a cornerstone of the local community and a recognised beacon of excellence in education.”

The school will serve the Barton Farm development and, in consultation with Hampshire County Council, may admit children from existing local neighbourhoods.

“By creating this dynamic learning environment, where children have access to an inspirational curriculum and cutting edge facilities, the new school will nurture a lifelong love of learning so that all children realise their potential,” added Prof Carter.

“It is our firm belief that these children will progress into secondary education and beyond with a strong sense of self and the confidence to engage with the wider world.

“We look forward to working in partnership with local residents in the coming years to bring our distinctive values-driven educational ethos to primary education in Winchester.”

The University of Winchester already has experience in the area of providing education, having been a co-sponsor of the Bishop of Winchester Academy since 2011. It is also recognised by Ofsted as a provider of Outstanding Initial Teacher Training.

Steve Brine, MP for Winchester and Chandler's Ford, who will serve as a Trustee on the University of Winchester Academy Trust said: “This is very good news. Now it's going ahead, I think we're all about making the best of Barton Farm and a brand new school, run by such a trusted provider, is a key part of that. We already have so many outstanding schools in Winchester and I know this will be a strong addition to the family with a very clear set of values everyone can support.”