The Oxford Academy opened its doors for the first time earlier this month. Year 7 students from Rose Hill, Littlemore and The Leys communities arrived at the new academy on September 3 in their smart new uniforms, keen to start their secondary education career.

The rest of the week saw a staggered start for other year groups, giving each group of students time to settle in and find out all they need to know about their new academy.

Mike Reading, principal, said: "We will build a real 'can do' culture throughout the academy. There are already many fantastic students, talented teachers and examples of good practice that we will build upon.

"It will not be long before we have our new facilities which will only further improve the life chances and opportunities for our students and the community.

"I am looking forward to working in partnership with students, staff, parents and the community to transform the vision we have created for the academy into reality, offering an academy that will be an inspirational and innovative place to learn.

"The academy will play a full role in the local community, with everyone having an opportunity in shaping its future."

The academy is sponsored by the Oxford Diocesan Board of Education, Oxford Brookes University and the Beecroft Trust. It specialises in maths and ICT and sport, all of which will be embedded throughout the academy's - curriculum, providing tremendous opportunities for students to link with a range of projects in the area and to develop their confidence, understanding, experience and skills.

Leslie Stephen, of Oxford Diocesan Board of Education, said: "On behalf of all the sponsors, Oxford Brookes University, the Beecroft Trust and the Oxford Diocesan Board of Education, I would like to say how excited we are that the Oxford Academy has opened.

'We are looking forward to a long and successful relationship with the academy. As sponsors, we will continue to ensure that the Oxford Academy becomes an outstanding community academy that provides excellent education for its students and plays a key part in the local communities of The Leys, Littlemore and Rose Hill."

Students and parents who want to find out more about the Oxford Academy and joining in September 2009 should go along to the open days.

The Oxford Academy open days are: Wednesday, October 1, 9am-11am and 3.30pm-7pm. Thursday, October 2, 9am-11am.

Visit the website to find out more about the new academy: www.theoxfordacademy.org.uk The Oxford Academy, Sandy Lane West, Littlemore, Oxford OX4 6JY Call 01865 774311, or email enquiries@theoxfordacademy.org.uk