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University gets green light for STEM-centred multi academy trust

Aston University has received official approval to establish a multi academy trust.

The Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust will consist of the existing Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy, which is a University Training College (UTC) and the soon-to-be opened Aston University Mathematics School, alongside jewellery skills training centre, the Goldsmiths’ Institute.

The schools have been designed to provide young people with educational opportunities to prepare them for careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related industries.

Aston University Mathematics School (AUMS), which is due to open in September 2025 will focus on 16  to 19-year-olds who have a talent for maths and will be the maths school for the West Midlands.

This new development is linked to the university’s 2030 strategy which states a commitment to support and improve the lives of people in its surrounding communities, within Birmingham and the wider West Midlands.

Professor Aleks Subic, vice chancellor and chief executive of Aston University said: “This marks a significant milestone in our journey to transform and lead STEM education across the region.

“We have an unwavering commitment to nurturing regional talent, fostering innovation and creating opportunities that will benefit our community and region for generations to come.

“By establishing this trust, we reaffirm our leadership role in driving educational excellence and impact and contributing to the prosperity of the West Midlands.”

The regional director for education and the West Midlands Advisory Board approved the university’s application to sponsor a multi trust academy on 24 October. This will become official on 31 January. Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy will formally join on 30 April.

Meanwhile, AUM, which is currently officially classed as a pre-opening school, will open its doors to its first 75 students to start classes in September 2025.

Last year, the university acquired the National College for Advanced Transport and Infrastructure building, which is next to Aston University Engineering Academy, and within the Birmingham Innovation Quarter. This allows all the multi academy trust buildings to be based in one location.

Daniel Locke-Wheaton, executive principal of Aston University’s UTC and Aston University Mathematics school led the 12-month accreditation process. He said: “The Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust will bring together all of our cutting-edge facilities to provide a learning environment that will equip all of our students to develop the skills they will need to thrive in modern higher education and working environments.

“It will provide an exceptional education to currently under-supported students in the West Midlands and will strengthen regional awareness of career opportunities available to young people regionally, specifically local communities around Aston University.”

It is 12 years since Aston University Engineering Academy, Birmingham’s first university technical college, opened its doors and has since provided hundreds of 14 to 19-year-olds the opportunity to gain qualifications for careers in science and engineering.

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