Plans for a new Eton Star Academies sixth form college in Dudley have been approved by the government, sparking a divided response among local politicians. Although the announcement on December 12 was met with cautious optimism, Dudley’s Liberal Democrats argue the proposal is unnecessary and funds would be better directed elsewhere.
Cllr Ryan Priest, leader of the borough’s Liberal Democrats, expressed concerns, saying, “Dudley does not need another FE college. What we truly need is substantial investment in apprenticeships and vocational training that leads directly to employment.”
He added that prioritizing an Eton-backed academy over vocational education illustrates a disconnect between local needs and national decision-making. “Forcing through an Eton-affiliated scheme while apprenticeships and skills training are overlooked shows how out of touch Labour in Westminster and the Tories in Dudley are with the realities young people face here,” said Priest.
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The new sixth form college will be located on Stafford Street and is designed to accommodate 240 students. Its development had been paused following the last general election and the accompanying government spending review.
Sir Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies, highlighted the academy’s broader ambitions: “We intend to collaborate with schools and colleges across the region to ensure Eton Star Dudley positively impacts its pupils and enriches the wider educational landscape. Our plans include state-of-the-art facilities and a world-class curriculum that opens up opportunities, while benefiting the local community and economy.”
Dudley’s Labour deputy leader, Cllr Shaukat Ali, welcomed the decision but stressed the importance of inclusivity. “It’s vital that Eton and Star academies have flexible admission criteria to unlock the potential of young people in disadvantaged areas so no child is left behind,” Ali stated.
Labour MP Sonia Kumar echoed these sentiments, committing to close cooperation with ministers, local authorities, headteachers, and parents. She said, “As the project progresses, I will ensure this school benefits the community, supports pathways for disadvantaged students, and strengthens education in Dudley rather than destabilizing it.”