King's Leadership Academy brings public school standards education into the state-sector

King's Leadership Academy opened its gates two weeks ago with aspirations to give young people in Great Lever the opportunity to experience all the benefits of a public school education without the hefty price tag.

Mr Crosby, who made national headlines for helping a student from one of the country’s poorest areas secure a place at the world famous Eton College, said: "Why should an child in Great Lever have less life chances than those who can afford to send their child to Eton or Harrow? We want to offer the same experiences — and actually it is not about money, it is about character, and what these communities have in abundance is character and it is about using that.

"A lot of students here have big dreams already, they do not lack aspiration, but sometimes they lack the knowledge, for example how to get into Oxford. If you go to any public school that knowledge exists already."

The school opened in high quality temporary accommodation to 173 children, with very few places remaining. Plans are being drawn up for a new school build.

Each classroom is named after one of the country's top universities. There is a school poem, which young people are learning.

The strong academic focus of the school is evident, and there is no doubt good qualifications open doors.

But said Mr Crosby: "Academic qualifications alone won't get you through the door."

He added: "One in seven go to independent schools, they take one in two places at Russell Group universities and hold 80 per cent of CEO positions. This cannot be because they are brighter children it is because of their character their social skills."

And no opportunity is missed to promote personal development ­— from pupils welcoming visitors as a “greeter” to their classroom to a wide enrichment programme such as traditional sports together with fencing, and music.

At the heart of the school is the Aspire Code, aspiration, achievement, self-awareness, professionalism, integrity respect and endeavour.

“Our job is to show students what that looks like - professionalism through the uniform - and we explain why this important,” said Mr Crosby, who added: “Some people might say we are quite strict but there is warmth behind that and a lot of explaining as to why we are doing this and because we care.”

Mr Crosby concluded: “Until we live in a world where every state school is on par an Eton or Harrow will keep fighting and doing this.”

Ayesha Alhbo, aged 11: “As soon as I read the letter about the school opening and I thought this a very good school and thought it was right for me.

“I am really enjoying it, and the teachers are very good.”

Shaun Simmons, aged 11, said: “The school is really good and the aspire values, all the quotes and the pictures do inspire you.

“It is amazing being one of the first pupils at this new school.”

Ilti Zaan, aged 11, : “I am really like coming to the school and the lessons are enjoyable.”