TWO south Essex grammar schools are looking to expand their sixthforms to create more than 100 new places for teenagers.

Southend High School for Boys is looking to increase its number of sixthform students from 400 to 450, while Westcliff High School for Girls is bidding to add another 70 students to the sixthform.

This would take the total number of students at Westcliff High School for Girls sixthform from 330 to 400.

Southend High School for Boys says detailed building plans will be finalised during the next phase of the application, but it is looking to secure £750,000 for the expansion.

Robin Bevan, headteacher of Southend High School for Boys, said: “Southend High School for Boys is proud to be at the forefront in serving the heart of our local community. Southend students deserve access to high-quality education in well-resourced facilities.

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“Our sixth form is the largest and most successful provider of academic education, at A-level, in the local area. Every year we receive more than 500 applications, from pupils attending other schools, for the very limited number of places available to join the sixth form.

“As one of the region’s leading providers of A-levels, we are delighted to be exploring the option of increasing our registered sixth form numbers from 400 to 450, for September 2024.”

In a letter to parents, Emma Matthews headteacher of Westcliff High School for Girls, said Government data shows more post 16 educational places are needed in the Southend area.

She said: “The school believes that the expansion and the additional facilities will enhance the provision at the school and be in the best interest of present and prospective pupils and parents as well as the wide community.”

The plans have also been welcomed by senior councillors. Laurie Burton, councillor responsible for children and learning and inclusion, said: “It’s good news the young people of Southend will get more choice in provision for post 16. Both schools have excellent A-level results and are oversubscribed so it makes sense for them to expand”

Westcliff High School for Girls is holding a consultation into the plans which runs until January 13 and Southend High School for Boys is running one until January 26.

To take part, email sfconsultation@shsb.org.uk or generalenquiries@whsg.info