PENKETH High School is to close its sixth form in August next year due to funding problems.

But a Penketh councillor says he is ‘deeply shocked’ by the announcement.

Current year 12 and year 13 students will complete their A levels at the school but there will be no new admissions for September and pupils are advised to make alternative sixth form choices.

Parents and pupils have been informed of the decision this week.

Penketh High School’s principal, Ben Dunne said the closure was due to intense funding difficulties that make it difficult for sixth forms with less than 150 students to survive.

Around 40 per cent of Penketh’s year 11 students already choose to study at Priestley College and Mr Dunne said he is keen to develop this relationship.

Priestley College, in Latchford, is in a position to collaborate with schools and create a Multi-Academy Trust under new legislation, offering Penketh’s students a smooth transition from year 11 to year 12.

“When you look at the facilities and what they are able to offer youngsters it makes it very difficult to compete,” he said.

“We are looking at forming a much closer partnership with Priestley.”

He said that Priestley can offer the right combination of A Levels and general vocational qualifications so that pupils can follow their chosen path.

However Cllr David Keane, ward member for Penketh and Cuerdley, criticised the proposals.

He said: "I'm deeply shocked that the governing body has already voted in favour of a proposal to remove the sixth form before consulting with pupils, parents, staff and the local community.

“I'm very concerned about the idea that local children and young adults are being denied a huge opportunity to continue to study at the school and sixth form college of their choice.”

Mr Dunne said the school will work closely with students who wanted to attend Penketh College and he has invited sixth forms from across Warrington to talk to his pupils about their options.

“I am confident that as an outstanding 11-16 school, Penketh High School will continue to enhance the life chances of our pupils so that their exciting journeys can continue on the path that is right for them,” he said.

The consultation period until March 9 will allow children, parents, staff and other stakeholders to have their say.

An open meeting to discuss the proposal will take place at the school on February 25 from 5pm to 6pm, for more information visit penkethhighschool.co.uk.