Building work begins this week on the site of a brand new £19m leading educational academy in Wythenshawe, Manchester.

Manchester Enterprise Academy (MEA), which is due to open in Woodhouse Park this September, will be a totally new way of educating young people to meet the learning needs of the city's businesses.

The academy, which is one of seven across the city and one of the first to open, will provide 750 places for 11-16 year olds and post 16 provision for 120 students from 2010.

It will open in September 2009 and be based in the existing Parklands High School buildings for its first year, before moving into brand new purpose built facilities on the same site in September 2010.

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Initial work on the site on Simonsway will include the demolition of a single storey block that was a former music and art room and the erection of hoardings.

The Academy is sponsored by Manchester Airport with co-sponsorship from Willow Park Housing Trust, Manchester City Council and The Manchester College.

Marie Quayle, Principal Designate of the MEA says: "I am thrilled to be the Principal Designate of such a truly innovative and groundbreaking academy. Students that choose to come here will receive the very best opportunities in a supportive and caring environment and will be encouraged to develop the skills, confidence and attitude they will need for the world of work and life in general."

The site will be open from 7am to 10pm and will become the hub of the community giving parents, families and the whole community the opportunity to benefit from the facilities.

(CD/JM)