A SCHOOL has looked to a hero from the past to inspire it in the future as it enters a new era in specialist education.

Middlesbrough soldier Stanley Hollis, who earned a Victoria Cross during the D-Day landings, will lend his name to the latest school to convert to academy status.

The conversion is the 100th for North-East educational experts the Avec Partnership.

Formerly Prince Bishop School, Middlesbrough, it is the latest to join the Horizon Specialist Academy Trust. (HSAT). The 110-student school, which specialises in social, emotional and mental health issues, becomes Hollis Academy.

Trust chief executive Elizabeth Horne said: “Our students chose the name after studying Stanley Hollis and his heroism in World War II. It really is a name to be proud of.”

HSAT provides specialist education at Abbey Hill, Green Gates and Westlands Academies in Stockton, ranging from primary to sixth form and residential provision.

“The timescale for converting was really tight in this instance and we could not have achieved it without Avec’s help and continued support.” Ms Horne said. “Our vision with Hollis Academy is to move it out of special measures, expand opportunities, enhance the curriculum and boost the range of experiences available for students.”