THE closure of a school sixth-form will allow a greater focus on the teaching of its secondary-aged pupils, bosses say.

Kearsley Academy's post-16 provision has closed after numbers of students enrolling there fell year-on-year ­— with none choosing to study there in the last academic year.

The decision was taken by the department for education following a consultation.

And say school bosses the decision has not had any impact "on students or staff".

When it opened, around £50,000 was been invested into the sixth-form block, complete with a common room, kitchen, lecture room and study area.

It was hoped the provision more young people to stay on in education and provide post-16 courses in that area of the borough.

School bosses say that pupils will continue to benefit from the "wealth of alternative sixth form provision in Bolton, Manchester and Greater Manchester".

And Northern Education Trust, which governs the school, says it believes that the focus should continue to be on improving the quality of education in Years 7 to 11 as it continues to become more popular as standards rise.

Numbers have increased from 150 to 180 and in the summer 65 per cent of students achieved a pass in English and maths, showing an improvement of 23 per cent since 2017.

A spokesperson for the Trust said: “Kearsley Academy remains committed to raising standards for the students in our care.

"We constantly focus on standards as we understand that outcomes are paramount.

"Our decision making is driven entirely by what is best for children. By doing this we enhance the life chances of the children and young people in our care."

Recently the academy celebrated the completion of 3G sports pitches and two ICT suites are being installed with a new library.

In 2012, Westhoughton High School closed its sixth form provision due to funding and students choosing to go to standalone colleges and reductions in funding.