Shireland CBSO Academy in West Bromwich welcomed West Midlands Mayor Andy Street for an exclusive tour of the Academy prior to its opening in September.
The Mayor’s itinerary saw him tour the Academy’s site and facilities and meet with staff from the school and Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust as well as representatives from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).
Conversations centred around the school’s comprehensive music curriculum, which strives for academic and musical excellence, its state-of-the-art facilities and the unique opportunities that will be available to students as a result of the partnership with the CBSO.
Shireland CBSO Academy, which will welcome its first cohort of year 7 and Sixth Form students in September, will deliver the national curriculum with music at its core.
Young people from across Sandwell and the wider West Midlands will have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument or take vocal lessons, including chances to perform both in and outside the Academy with expert guidance from the CBSO’s professional musicians.
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “This is a truly innovative project and I cannot wait to see the wonderful world of opportunities that the Academy opens up to young people here in Sandwell.
“Shireland will provide local households with a high-quality education at the same time as pioneering a unique partnership with the CBSO that will no doubt change lives for the better in the months and years ahead. I’m grateful to all involved for helping to turn this bold vision into reality.”
The building design has had input from acoustic specialists to ensure the delivery of superior music learning and performing experiences. Facilities will include a specialist auditorium, classrooms and music practice rooms, drama and recording studios, immersive room and library, providing students with unparalleled space to develop and showcase their talents.
Principal Designate at Shireland CBSO Academy, David Green, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Mayor ahead of the Academy’s opening.
“We are proud to offer our students an education that combines academic and musical excellence in partnership with the CBSO. This is an academy that will welcome all students with a passion or talent for music.”
Stephen Maddock OBE, Chief Executive at CBSO, also commented: “We are delighted that our exciting new school is now getting closer to completion.
“The buildings will be outstanding, and together with our colleagues at Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust we are committed to making a real difference in the lives of thousands of children and young people, giving them access to world-class musical opportunities whatever their background. This new Academy will form an exciting centrepiece of the CBSO’s huge learning, participation and talent development programmes.”
