SCHOOL Reform Minister Nick Gibb was in town this morning to formally announce Swindon is to get to new secondary schools in what will be a multi-million pound scheme.

In an unprecedented move, the Government said both bids were successful - the first time one town has had two bids approved in one round.

The Diocese of Bristol will run one of the schools, which is likely be in Wichelstowe, and New College will run the other somewhere in the north of Swindon.

Speaking at the new UTC, the minister said both bids were very strong which is why Swindon is leading the way.

Mr Gibb said: “To get through the very rigorous process does require a clear demonstration there is parental demand for a free school and you have to demonstrate you have the right teaching staff, the right curriculum and the whole project is feasible.

"To get through all the various interviews and paper application means they are very high quality bids.

“With both bids the curriculum was very strong and they had a clear a clear vision of what they want to achieve.”

New College principal Graham Taylor said he was surprised both were successful and said the aim is to have the school, which will have a focus on IT, open by September 2017.

He said: “We’re delighted with the news but I am surprised to get it because I didn’t think the town would get two bids through. I think it’s the first time which is great for Swindon.

"The Great Western Academy, as it is called, will be in the north of the town where there is a great demand for places.

“I am really pleased for all the parental support and support from businesses and especially our local MP Justin Tomlinson, who has put in a lot of work to make this possible.

“But actually the work starts now. We’ve got to make it happen. We will work our best night and day to bring the town a great school.

"The smart money is probably on a 2017 opening which we will work very hard to achieve. We’ve got to work with the Department of Education but we’ll aim for that date because the need for places is highest.”