The two new Academies for Hastings and St Leonards are currently in their Implementation Phase. The DFE has drawn up a schedule of activities which must be delivered to enable a smooth transition from the predecessor schools to the Academies. These are currently being managed by a Transition Group made up representatives from the Sponsors, the Principals Designate, the Project Management Company and the Local Authority. The Chief Executive will also be a member when appointed.

The Implementation is the operational plans of specific activities drawn up by the DFE for the Academies development in readiness for opening in September 2011. This includes the appointment of the senior leadership team, the development of the staffing structure and transfer of staff, the Academies’ development plan including details of the curriculum teaching and learning strategy, the uniform design, the names of the Academies, etc. Towards the end of this phase, the building works on the new Academies will begin. The design process currently being undertaken will confirm the aspirations of the Sponsors and will raise the expectations of all the major stakeholders in realising the level of the transformation that can be achieved in this proposal. It will further demonstrate the investment being made in the young people in Hastings and the local community.

During the feasibility stage we received a lot questions and feedback from key stakeholders and the wider community on various elements of the consultation, all of which was consideration by Sponsors in their decision before submission of the feasibility report to the Secretary of State.

The sponsors are keen to continue the collaboration with students, parents and carers, staff and the wider community, including those from local feeder primary schools and other secondary schools. This will ensure the views and comments help to shape the future of the Academies.