Countdown begins for new Academy

PA140/09 The countdown to the opening of Nottingham University Samworth Academy started on May 22nd with a celebration of pupils' creativity and talent. 'Limitless Futures' — a special event held at The University of Nottingham — showcased artwork, films, photography, theatre, magic and displays, bringing together staff, sponsors and governors with city councillors and MPs to mark the start of a '100-day countdown' to the opening. Nottingham University Samworth Academy (NUSA) opens its doors in September 2009, on the site of the existing William Sharp School in Bilborough. It will move into brand-new £24m facilities on the William Sharp site in September 2010. Its sponsors are The University of Nottingham and retired businessman and philanthropist David Samworth. The title of the May 22nd event, 'Limitless Futures', reflects aspirations for the children of Bilborough and the potential of the new Academy to transform their prospects for the future. Among the displays was an exploration of 'The Road to Bilborough', a University-sponsored project that has seen two playwrights working in the community to create a play about the part of the city that is home to William Sharp.