THE VALE of Berkeley College is facing a further battle to ensure it can continue to provide a full programme for pupils of all ages.

The school is preparing to fight for the future of its sixth form following the announcement by Gloucestershire County Council of a countywide review of sixth form provision.

The council is looking at sixth form provision within the south of the county, which encompasses Rednock and Katharine Lady Berkeley's Schools, Stroud College and The Vale of Berkeley College.

Aim of the review is to ensure every young person has access to the best possible learning opportunities, teaching and resources.

Three options for sixth form provision in the area have been put forward for consultation - maintenance of the status quo, increased collaboration or closure of the Vale of Berkeley College's 23-pupil sixth form.

This is not the first time the school has faced an uncertain future.

Two years ago it narrowly escaped closure as the education auithority reviewed the viability of the county's smallest secondary school.

Headteacher Michael Hardwick said staff and governors would again do whatever necessary to ensure young people in Berkeley continued to have access to the best possible learning opportunities, teaching and resources.

"We believe that we have a full part to play in post-16 provision in the south of Gloucestershire," he said. "We aim to illustrate through the review that our way is right for our pupils."

Mr Hardwick is hoping the element of choice offered by the school and its excellent record of achievement is taken into account when assessing overall county provision.

"While cost is obviously a consideration it is only part of the equation," he added. "We have experienced staff who offer courses that best suit our particular cohort of pupils. All young people have a right to education and our environment is the right choice for some pupils."

Mr Hardwick said that since being saved from closure the school has gone from strength to strength.

"We have achieved technology college status, been awarded the prestigious Arts Mark in recognition of commitment to the arts and achieved the International School Award for outstanding development of the international dimension of the curriculum," he said.

An extensive refurbishment program has also been undertaken and the school now boasts new facilities in science, design and technology, languages and information computer technology as well specialised equipment in English and maths.

Added Mr Hardwick: "Parents are also realising just what a gem of a school they have on their doorstep and numbers transferring from primary school were up 27 percent this year."

There will be a consultation meeting on the review of sixth forms in the Vale of Berkeley College on Thursday, November 27 (7pm). The meeting will be open to all parents and other members of the public.