MP to raise plight of doomed Walsall school in debate

David Winnick will challenge education ministers on the decision to shut the Black Country University Technical College, in Vernon Way, Bloxwich, which has 158 pupils and only opened four years ago.

Labour's Mr Winnick, MP for Walsall North, is raising the school in a House of Commons adjournment debate.

He said: "The Black Country UTC was one of the first five to be established; apart from the one in Bloxwich, another one of the five in London is also due to close at the same time.

"There is apparently a question mark over a third. Nevertheless, such colleges are continuing to be encouraged by the government.

"There was a very critical Ofsted report three months ago into the school which referred to poor standards, as well as below average attendance; moreover, it stated that insufficient provision was made to improve the quality of teaching. However, the report did state the new principal had introduced better systems regarding student progress.

"Though Ofsted also said that the governors had failed to tackle the underperformance of staff and other related issues, it did not recommend closure.

"The college was only started four years ago, amidst a good deal of acclaim over its advanced technical education for 14-19 year olds. It is understandable that the news of the closure caused a good deal of disappointment, bearing in mind the need for such specialist skills in the Black Country."

Of the 158 pupils, 57 are due to complete their studies before the school closes. The rest are to be helped to find alternative education.