Eton College will come to Dudley after government gives go-ahead

Plans to bring Eton College to the borough will go ahead with the move hailed as a “big vote of confidence in Dudley” by the council’s leader.

The plans, first announced in 2023, had been on hold after the Secretary of State announced a review of all free schools in October last year.

But the move is now back on following an announcement at Westminster and has been warmly welcomed by the leader of Dudley Council.

Councillor Patrick Harley said: “This is a great announcement and one that further enhances the quality of higher education for the students of Dudley and the wider Black Country. 

“Whilst it’s been a long time coming I welcome the DfE finally making the decision that adds to the offer for the next generation and further assists in the regeneration of Dudley town centre.

“Eton and Star Academies choosing Dudley is a big vote of confidence in the abilities of Dudley people to deliver. 

“What an opportunity for the next generation of talented kids that would never get the opportunity had Eton and Star not selected Dudley as a prime location.”

Back in 2023 Eton College and Star Academies announced plans to open three selective sixth form colleges in the state sector in the next five years. Along with Dudley, Middlesbrough and Oldham were the other two.

Last year the authority announced part of a council car park in Stafford Street in Dudley town centre would be cleared to allow the college to be built.

It has been on hold since then and subject to government review.

The new college will welcome up to 240 pupils per year.