Almost two years since plans for an Eton College–backed sixth-form college in Middlesbrough, these are still in limbo. Their lack of urgency has deeply disappointed local leaders and educators. The previous Conservative government welcomed the proposal as it moved through its final stages in 2023. The new Labour government has put it on hold while taking stock of the value of new regular schools.
The new sixth form college would eventually enroll 480 students. It’s mission driven, with a focus on uplifting the entire community through improved educational outcomes for the region’s young people. The community was previously blindsided when the highly contentious project had won approval with the backing of Eton College and Star Academies, which would run the new institution. Yet, a year ago, the newly elected Labour government shelved the initiative. What they were trying to determine is whether new state-funded schools are getting the most bang for the buck for taxpayers’ dollars.
Mieka Smiles, the now Independent, former deputy mayor and Conservative Middlesbrough councillor, called the delay “shocking and disappointing”. She highlighted the college’s future role in transforming the lives of local students, especially those from underprivileged communities.
The Labour Member of Parliament for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, Andy McDonald, provided a counterpoint to the concerns raised by Smiles. He noted that the area was already overprovided with sixth form provision. He thinks that abundance creates incredible opportunities for students. McDonald went on to argue that though Eton’s engagement could be a positive development, it should not come at the expense of established educational institutions.
“I would welcome Eton finding a way to support our existing institutions in a way which does not undermine the excellent offer we already have and makes sure we have an education provision which will nurture and bring out the talent of every young person,” McDonald remarked.
The Labour government instituted the largest and most thorough review ever into what should be provided in a state school. This is why they ultimately chose to freeze these Eton-financed university proposals. This is despite Children’s Minister Josh MacAlister MP recently announcing a second update on the review should be forthcoming. Look for more information about that before the year is out.
Debates on the future of educational opportunities in Middlesbrough continue. Local leaders are at loggerheads over the need for a proposed new sixth form college, the need for it and its potential impact. Supporters view it as a key tool for helping smart, low-income kids succeed. Yet the latter argue that current educational offerings already meet community aspirations and needs.
As discussions continue around the future of educational opportunities in Middlesbrough, local leaders remain divided on the necessity and implications of the proposed sixth form college. While some view it as a vital resource for gifted yet underprivileged students, others argue that existing provisions are sufficient to meet the community’s educational needs.
