Teenagers across the borough now have another sixth form at which they can continue their education with the opening of Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre.

Based in East Ham, the new multi-million pound learning centre opened its doors last Thursday to give students an opportunity to study at a specialist science and mathematics sixth form centre. This year’s intake of 150 students took part in a two-day induction which included a visit to Cambridge University as a way of encouraging them to aim high.

The centre is founded by Newham Council and a group of Newham schools – Cumberland, Kingsford, Lister, Little Ilford, Plashet, Rokeby, Royal Docks, Sarah Bonnell and Stratford School Academy.

It is based in the Town Hall Complex in prestigious Grade II listed buildings on the site of the old technical college, former planning office and public library.

Extensive work was carried out to get them ready for the first students, who can now look forward to benefitting from high-quality, dedicated facilities including nine new science laboratories.

Principal Mr Mouhssin Ismail, who grew up and studied in Ilford, said: “It is all about inspiring the students and the staff. We want students that have the desire and the passion to make something of themselves and aim high, not to let their background, where they come from or their ethnicity hold them back.”

He said his own experience as a lawyer working in the banking and finance sector had helped shape his vision for education at the sixth form centre.

Sir Robin Wales Mayor of Newham said: “We’re committed to providing our students with a first-class learning environment and the tools to achieve their potential.

“This new centre will complement our existing education offer in the borough and be a gateway for Newham students to enhance their study or employment as well as broaden their knowledge and skills.”