TORFAEN sixth form students could attend a single sixth form college rather than stay on at school under council plans.

The council proposal under the 21st Century Schools Project rolled out by the Welsh Government could see future sixth formers in Torfaen attend a new integrated post 16 centre offering a wide ranging curriculum.

Cllr David Yeowell confirmed that there is a proposal for the centre but said it has not been decided yet.

“The centre provides an opportunity for everyone to stay in post 16 education until the age of 18,” he said.

“[It will offer] academic, technical and vocational routes from entry level up to higher education.”

He said the college would also see an associated Engineering Centre of Excellence.

“It is still subject to discussion,” Cllr Yeowell continued.

“[We have] been in discussion for several years under the 21st century Schools project rolled out by the Welsh Government.

“We don’t know when it will go ahead but we are hoping it will be successful.

“This is a good proposal; this is first class in my view.

“The amenities it will allow pupils and staff in Cwmbran will be first rate.

“The curriculum is wide ranging, [offering] not only academic studies but vocational ones as well.”

Cllr Yeowell said the project was ‘long overdue’ and called it a ‘fantastic opportunity for all pupils’.

Should the proposal go ahead it will affect five schools in the area as one school is set to be amalgamated in September.

The proposal said it aims to take advantage of the road and rail links and build the facility in Cwmbran town centre.