AN Ipswich school is set to open as an academy later this year after being sponsored by Suffolk New College.

Chantry High School’s application to become an academy has moved a stage closer, after they were granted ministerial approval to be sponsored.

Suffolk New College and Chantry High will now be working on the details of the new academy, which will open on September 1.

Dave Muller, Suffolk New College Principal said: “We are delighted with this very positive outcome.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the new Academy which will allow us to develop even stronger working relationships with the south west area of Ipswich and work towards seamless progression for young adults where our curriculum meets their needs.”

Andrew Fell, Head teacher at Chantry High School said: ”We are very pleased to hear the news that we can progress our plans to become an Academy in partnership with Suffolk New College. This will offer even greater opportunities for our students, providing them with a unique experience within Ipswich.”

John Dugmore, chief executive of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said it was great news for the whole of Ipswich.