Darwen saw the launch of its first sixth form provision for 20 years, when the new Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) opened on September 8th.

The new sixth form offers a wide range of A Levels and vocational qualifications to young people in the Darwen area, while also providing a Level 2 course, equivalent to GCSE study. The new post-16 provision will, in time, cater for up to 400 students, bringing together innovative teaching with state-of-the-art technology and surroundings.

DACA sixth form students will benefit from a number of additional extras. These include, the loan of a laptop computer for the duration of their course, smaller tutor groups to ensure personalised support and guidance, a dedicated social area, a separate and well resourced learning centre for private study, international visits, leadership roles within the Academy and a structured programme of intensive support for those looking to go to university.