A new school where three-hour lessons are the norm opens its doors today.

The RSA Academy will have five terms, a longer school day and year than usual, and up to 90 children in a class at one time.

The school in Tipton, West Midlands, is sponsored by the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce.

It was opened today by the Duke of Edinburgh. Pupils will be taught a curriculum known as Opening Minds, which encourages them to develop life skills covering five main areas: citizenship, learning, managing information, managing situations and relating to people.

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the RSA, said: “As a society that believes we need to radically rethink schooling for the 21st century, we believe the academy can implement other effective and innovative ideas, for example the five-term year.

“We are truly fortunate to have chosen a school that was already fast improving and a community that is so excited and supportive about the idea.”

Michael Gernon, the academy’s principal, said: “We need to raise students’ aspirations and build the expectation that they are aiming for university.”

Classes at RSA Academy will regularly join together for group lessons. It is divided into three ‘schools’: maths, science and technology; arts, humanities, sport and leisure; and language and communications.

There will be a fortnight’s break between terms, and a four week summer break. The school day is divided into two three-hour lessons, with teams of staff working with each group.

All students will have access to two “enrichment sessions” each week, including courses such as Chinese or Spanish for beginners, growing your own vegetables and Young Enterprise.

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