The Academy of St Nicholas in Liverpool has opened its doors to students for the first time.

On Wednesday 6 September, over 700 students and 97 staff started the new term at The Academy of St Nicholas.

Formerly ESLA, the academy has been re-launched under its new name of The Academy of St Nicholas.

It is now part of the All Saints Multi Academy Trust alongside The Academy of St Francis of Assisi and All Saints Sixth Form College.

On the first day back at school, pupils benefited from the Academy’s state of the art £26 million building with facilities including modern ICT rooms, ‘breakout’ spaces for independent learning and eight acres of outdoor space.

The launch comes after a successful GCSE results day in August when the Academies Progress 8 measure increased significantly, with real success stories across the board, in addition to personal triumphs in individual subjects.

Student successes include Anthony Li, Owen Wilson, Natalia Szumiec and Amber Parr, who racked up 19 A*s and As between them. Two students achieved the coveted Grade 9 in their maths GCSE.

At the helm of the Academy is newly appointed Head of School, David Lancaster. As a teacher for over twenty six years, David has gained experience in Greater Manchester and most recently as head of two academies in Lincolnshire.

“Exciting day”

David Lancaster says: “I am delighted to be the newly appointed Head of School and welcome new and returning students to The Academy of St Nicholas today.

“It’s an exciting day as we officially open our doors as St Nicholas and get to work with ensuring we deliver the best possible outcomes for all our students. The staff and I are eager to get started and work closely with students, parents and the wider community.”

On the same site as St Nicholas Academy is All Saints Sixth Form College, a new sixth form centre offering quality post-16 education.

This year’s new intake will have the opportunity to study A-level and BTEC courses alongside a varied enrichment programme developing skills needed for the world of work.

The dedicated Sixth Form College will be an innovative hub for post-16 education, offering young people high quality careers advice, UCAS guidance and pastoral support.

The Executive Headteacher of the Trust, Anne Pontifex, adds: “It’s great to finally open the doors to All Saints Sixth Form College. We have welcomed students from right across the city who have joined All Saints to achieve their future aspirations. Everyone is excited to get started and give our students the best possible education.”