Theresa May has expressed her support for Eton College’s announcement that it will be taking on the role of sole educational sponsor of Holyport College, the new free school due to open in September 2014 in her constituency. Holyport College will be established as a new day and boarding school in the state sector, with specific provision being made for looked-after children, children on the edge of care and those from armed forces families. Eton’s sponsorship will be undertaken through the provision of staff time and expertise, and sharing educational experience and facilities.
Commenting, Theresa said: “The partnership between Holyport College and Eton College is one that could bring significant benefits to the local area, and is a promising sign of the kind of collaboration between the state and independent sectors that can be a model for the future. It is great that local children in the state sector will have the chance to benefit from the expertise of Eton College, and I hope that we can see similar partnerships extending across the country.”
Tony Little, Head Master of Eton said: “We believe in the vision for Holyport College as a new state boarding school and see its geographical proximity to Eton as a real opportunity. We have a leading role on the Governing Body and will help shape the school ready for opening in September 2014. We look forward to sharing a number of our facilities and activities and developing educational initiatives for the benefit of pupils of both Colleges.”
Education Secretary Michael Gove said: “The partnership between Eton College and Holyport College is inspiring. Eton College’s heritage of distinguished academic and co-curricular excellence will be of benefit to all Holyport’s pupils, and will allow them to enjoy exceptional facilities while attending a Free School. This is an outstanding example of a state-independent education partnership.”
