Council Leader calls on Government for school investment

02 Jun 2025

The Leader of Northumberland County Council has written to Government making the case for additional funding to improve Berwick Academy. 

The letter highlights the Council’s unwavering support for the school and its dedication to providing world class educational facilities in the county. 

Cllr Glen Sanderson has called upon the Department for Education to contribute £13m towards a new build school to replace the outdated academy buildings in Northumberland’s most northern town.  

This will support the academy’s long-term sustainability and educational provision as well as providing further improvements within the wider Berwick community. 

Cllr Sanderson said: “Whilst the County Council is not responsible for maintenance of the existing Berwick Academy buildings, I am committed to supporting the Academy towards a sustainable future both educationally and financially.”   

The County Council has also welcomed the support of North Northumberland MP David Smith for his discussions with the DfE about making a contribution towards the cost of the new-build.  

Cllr Sanderson added: “Although it’s challenging, we will continue to work on a solution. Our young people deserve outstanding learning environments, and we remain fully committed to making that a reality.” 

Across Northumberland, the County Council is working to transform education and learning facilities for young people now and for generations to come - with over £100m invested in capital schemes. 

Along with Berwick Academy, projects are well underway to refurbish and rebuild schools in the Coquet, Seaton Valley and Berwick partnerships of schools, which will include state-of-the art new high schools as well as investment in primary schools, specialist, post-16 skills and post-18 provision. 

Discussions between the Council, the Regional Director and local MP are ongoing to further press for financial contribution towards the project.