FUNDING has been agreed for a new sixth form centre to serve part of Ryedale.

The North Yorkshire School Organisation Committee has given approval for the centre to be built at Norton College.

The Learning and Skills Council has given assurances that it will provide £5.44m to fund the development.

The building will cater for students from the existing Norton College, Malton School, Ryedale School, in Nawton, and Lady Lumley's, in Pickering.

Headteacher Tony Rawdin said: "We have a strong, recent tradition of excellent collaboration across all the schools in the area and our sixth form status will provide opportunities for learners throughout Ryedale.

"A joint governing body committee has enabled all four schools to adopt a more strategic approach to education in the area that genuinely puts the needs of the learner first."

The centre is due to open in September next year.

Plans for the development will go before North Yorkshire County Council's planning committee next Tuesday.

The proposals include an animal care centre, a sports hall and a greenhouse.

Officers have recommended that permission be granted.