Pimlico Academy

The Pimlico Academy opened in September 2008 within the existing building of Pimlico School. As part of the Building Schools for the Future initiative a complete rebuild is taking place and the Academy will move into the new building in stages. Cambridge Education’s wealth of Academy experience has grown through a variety of complex, innovative and fast-paced projects. Pimlico Academy was one such project.

The Academy was sponsored by Future – a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people – in conjunction with the DCSF, Westminster Borough Council and the predecessor school (Pimlico). Cambridge Education supported the Academy’s development through project management and education expertise, leading to a successful opening in September 2008.

The Academy caters for 11-19 year olds students and is particularly focused in delivering the specialisms of History and Visual and Performing Arts with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy. The Sponsor’s vision was to improve the opportunities and aspirations of its students in a modern and completely inclusive environment providing a learning centre for not only the children of Pimlico, but its local community.

Pimlico Academy was taken through the Feasibility stage very quickly, and the Funding Agreement signed in March 2008 by the Secretary of State. Our Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment (TUPE) and HR team managed staff transfers within tight timeframes. Support was provided to appoint the Principal to ensure the Principal was able to have an early involvement in curriculum development. This support enabled a smooth transition, minimising disruption to the students’ education.

The new building is due for completion in August 2010 with a brand new dual-use library supported by Westminster Council that will be a modern learning environment for students and a major resource for the community.

Such a prominent project brought with it questions and concerns from the local community. Cambridge Education carefully handled key stakeholders to put across positive messages from the Sponsor and to highlight the opportunities the Academy would offer its students.
Cambridge Education faced, and met the challenges of the Pimlico Academy with vigour and the team were happy to be a part of such an interesting, innovative and prominent Academy project.

Cambridge Education added value:

• Special needs expertise in determining the co-location of a special needs unit
• Ability to add capacity to the Westminster City Council project management of the Environmental Improvements prior to opening.
• Inclusion of ICT consultancy.