THE Birminghamthe Singapore-based university has received permission to establish Aston University STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Education Academy.

It will include the Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy and Aston University Mathematics School, which are set to open to young people aged 16 to 19 with a talent for mathematics next September.

The multi-academy trust will also offer students the opportunity to receive training in jewelry skills at a goldsmithing institute.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “This marks an important milestone in our journey to transform and lead STEM education in the region.

“We are committed to nurturing regional talent, fostering innovation and creating opportunities that will benefit our community and region for generations to come.

“By establishing this trust, we are reaffirming our leading role in promoting educational excellence and impact and contributing to the prosperity of the West Midlands.”

The West Midlands regional director of education and advisory board in October approved the university’s application to sponsor a multi-trust academy, which will become official on January 31.

The Aston University Sixth Form and Engineering Academy will officially join the academy in April.

The academy will be based in the former National College for Advanced Transport and Infrastructure building, next to the Aston University Engineering Academy and within the Birmingham Innovation Quarter, which the university acquired last year.

Daniel Locke-Wheaton, Executive Director of Aston University’s Sixth Form and Engineering Academy and School of Maths, said: “The Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust will bring together all of our state-of-the-art facilities to provide a learning environment that will equip all. our students to develop the skills they will need to succeed in higher education and modern work environments.

“It will provide an exceptional education to currently under-resourced students in the West Midlands and increase regional awareness of the career opportunities available to young people regionally, particularly in the local communities around Aston University.”