Yesterday, Dr Anthony Seldon, the eminent political historian and master of Wellington College, one of Britain's most famous independent schools, toured the site of The Wellington Academy, the new school launching this September in Ludgershall, sponsored by Wellington College.

Dr Seldon's visit marked the important links between the two schools. The Wellington Academy will draw its inspiration from the ethos of its sponsor, as well as from a vision of world-class 21st century education.  

A leading authority on contemporary history, politics and education and author of over 25 books which include Major, A Political Life and Blair Unbound, Dr Seldon's idea for launching an academy sponsored by Wellington College was driven by his ambition to raise academic attainment and achievement in schools and provide an all round education which fulfils every young person's potential.  

rom left to right: David Cowley (Chair of Governors Designate, The Wellington Academy), Andy Schofield (Principal, The Wellington Academy) and Dr Anthony Seldon (Master of Wellington College).

During the academic year 2009-2010 The Wellington Academy will be based at Castledown School in Ludgershall. The following year, students will transfer into a new £32 million academy building symbolising the future of education. The tour, given by The Wellington Academy's Principal, Andy Schofield, included seeing the current students working in their lessons and meeting staff who will transfer to the new academy. 

"The opening of The Wellington Academy will be a high point of this year, as we mark the College's 150th anniversary. Seeing the 'DNA' of Wellington College reflected in this new school, including boarding, well-being, service, excellence in all areas and outdoor life, echoes our founding values in every way," said Dr Seldon. 

"This academy was Anthony Seldon's original idea. I am absolutely delighted that we are now close to seeing such an exciting project get off the ground," said The Wellington Academy Principal, Andy Schofield. 

The Wellington Academy will open its doors to over 650 students this September. Students will benefit from a truly personalised curriculum and the academy specialisms in Business & Enterprise and Modern Foreign Languages, state-of-the-art ICT facilities and a brand new sixth form.