A new era for Alternative Provision in East Sussex

London South East Academies Trust (LSEAT) has today welcomed College Central into its network of schools, with the provision renamed East Sussex Academy.

The school provides Alternative Provision for children and young people aged 5–16 across the county, who have been excluded from, or who are unable to access mainstream education.

Previously part of Sabden Multi Academy Trust, the school has operated across several sites in Eastbourne and Hastings. However, to support its improvement journey and to ensure pupils have a high-quality learning environment, new sites have been secured:

Secondary (previously Eastbourne) provision has moved to purpose-built accommodation in Denton Island, Newhaven – now known as East Sussex Academy Newhaven

Primary provision and Year 7 & 8 have moved to a the former Burfield Academy site in Hailsham - now known as East Sussex Academy Hailsham
The Secondary (Hastings) site is undergoing a complete £12m rebuild. Temporary accommodation in town has been secured from early next year - with a blended model of onsite, online and college-based provision in place until then.

With its growing network of mainstream, special and alternative provision schools across London, Surrey and East Sussex, LSEAT has extensive expertise in SEND and a proven track record of successful school improvement.

The Trust has already begun implementing a robust improvement plan at East Sussex Academy, including the appointment of a new headteacher (Guy Walsh) and senior leadership team. LSEAT’s specialist Outreach Team has also been working closely with mainstream schools and leaders across the county, providing training and helping to reduce exclusions.

Dr Sam Parrett CBE, CEO of London South East Academies Trust, said:

“We are delighted to welcome East Sussex Academy into our Trust. While we recognise the challenges the school has faced, we are determined to ensure that every young person who needs alternative provision has access to a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive.

“As a Trust, our commitment is to transform lives through the power of learning. We are already making progress – with new leadership in place, new sites secured and a strong Outreach Team working with schools across the county.

“We are grateful for the support of East Sussex County Council, the DfE and the outgoing Trust – as well as staff and families. We would also like to thank our colleagues in mainstream schools and wider system partners, whose collaboration is vital in helping us to reduce exclusions and secure the best possible outcomes for children and young people. We look forward to working together to successfully move the school forward.”

Elizabeth Funge, Assistant Director Education, Children’s Services at East Sussex County Council adds:

“Today marks an exciting step forward for Alternative Provision in East Sussex.

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with LSEAT on the East Sussex Academy and look forward to seeing this provision grow from strength to strength.

“Our shared commitment is to work alongside the trust and all of our schools so that every young person has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their learning. This new partnership with LSEAT sits at the heart of delivering that ambition.”

Headteacher of East Sussex Academy, Guy Walsh, added:

“This is an exciting time for Alternative Provision in East Sussex. With the support of LSEAT and our local partners, we are focused on making rapid and lasting improvements for our pupils – to ensure they have access to the high-quality education they need and deserve.”

East Sussex Academy is the 15th school to join LSEAT’s growing network, which spans mainstream, special and alternative provision settings across London and the South East. The Trust also delivers an extensive outreach service and a regional music hub, supporting children and young people from birth to 25.

With inclusion at the heart of the Trust’s mission, LSEAT collaborates with many schools and colleges locally, regionally and nationally, exchanging evidence-based practice to ensure the best possible provision for pupils.

For more information about London South East Academies Trust, visit: www.LSEAT.org.uk
For more information about East Sussex Academy, visit: East Sussex Academy - Home