Smith's Wood sixth form set to close

PLANS to close the sixth form at Smith's Wood Sports College will be discussed by councillors tomorrow evening.
The school launched a Post 16 service in 2009, envisioning it would cater for up to 200 students.
But less than a decade on, staff have admitted that a dwindling roll-call has left the college with little option but to close the sixth form.
Ann Pearson, Solihull Council's director of children's services and skills, said: "Pupil numbers in the sixth form peaked in September 2012 at 160 but have been in steady decline ever since.
"In September 2016 there were 67 on roll of which only 37 are Year 12. Such small numbers...are not viable."
It is intended that the college allows current students to complete their studies, but they will not be taking on any more from September.
A consultation exercise is due to take place in the coming weeks, ahead of the school converting to an academy on April 1.
A full report will be included in the next edition of Other Side of Solihull.