PLANS to open a sixth form at Britain’s first rural academy are going well, says the principal of Wellington Academy, Andy Schofield.

There has been a good response from this year’s year 11 with around half of them applying to become a member of the first group of sixth formers.

“It is a very exciting time and year 11 are very keen,” said Mr Schofield.

“We have a good range of ‘A’ levels on offer and some other courses as well.”

The academy will open in the old buildings of Castledown School in September but details of a multi-million pound replacement building are to be revealed later this month when the successful bidder is announced.

The academy will also be keen to build community links, he added.