South Bank University Academy (SBUA) is proposing to transition from an 11–18 secondary school to a specialist Sixth Form (ages 16–19) from the 2026/27 academic year, subject to Department for Education (DfE) approval.
We’re holding a 30-day public consultation from 27 October to 25 November 2025 and welcome feedback from parents, students, staff and the community. SBUA is not closing.
What is being proposed?
- SBUA would become a professional and technical Sixth Form, focusing on A Levels, BTECs and T Levels in areas such as Digital Media, Computer Science, Business and Marketing.
- The change would start from 2026/27, pending DfE approval via a Significant Change Request (SCR).
Why make this change?
- To align education with employer demand and the local economy.
- To strengthen pathways into university, apprenticeships and skilled work through the LSBU Group partnership.
- To position SBUA as a centre of excellence for post-16 professional and technical learning in Southwark.
What this means for current students
- SBUA is not closing. Teaching continues for existing students.
- Year 10 will stay with SBUA through Year 11 (2026–27) to complete GCSEs.
- Years 8 and 9 will be supported to transfer to other local schools by the end of this academic year, in partnership with Southwark Council.
- No changes for Years 11–13 this year.
Timeline and decisions
- Consultation: 27 October – 25 November 2025.
- SBUA Board: 9 December 2025.
- LSBU Board: 11 December 2025.
- Submit SCR to DfE: 19 December 2025 (if approved).
Final DfE timelines to be confirmed.
Have your say
We want to hear from parents, students, staff and the wider community.
Please share support, questions or concerns using the open text fields below. Your comments will be reviewed by school leaders and summarised (anonymously) for Board consideration.