THE most significant change to secondary school education in Bicester for decades has been given the go-ahead.

On Tuesday, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet approved plans for a new Sixth Form college at Cooper School – costing £4m.

The new college will give teenagers a choice of where they undertake post-16 education in Bicester for the first time.

Currently, 16-year-olds can carry on their studies at Bicester Community College, in Queens Avenue, or they are forced to travel out of the town.

However, from September 2011 up to 185 students will be taught a range of subjects at the school in Churchill Road.

The money for the new development will come out of the county council’s 2009/2010 budget.

County council cabinet member for education Michael Waine said: “This is definitely going to happen.

“Work is already in hand putting together the brief. Work is expected to start early next year and will take about 12 months. We definitely want to open in September 2011.

“This is the most significant change in terms of secondary education for decades.

“As far as young people are concerned Bicester will offer a very real choice at 16; a local choice, where students will be able to stay within the community to develop their education and training.”

The new Sixth Form block will be built within the Cooper School’s current complex and will not stand alone.

Headteacher Ben Baxter and school governors are already working on the Sixth Form’s curriculum.

Among the subjects expected to be on offer are traditional A-levels, BTEC level three courses, engineering subjects, creative and media, sports and games, business and finance, ICT and health and social care.

County council director for children, young people and families Janet Tomlinson said: “This really is fantastic news for Bicester and the surrounding area.

“The possibility of creating a Sixth Form at Cooper School has been talked about for many years and we are delighted to be in a position to deliver this.

“Having to travel out to a new school or college in a different town can be quite an upheaval for teenagers and can even put young people off continuing their education.

“The creation of a second dedicated Sixth Form in Bicester will provide educational stability and continuity for many more young people.”