A CRADLEY HEATH school forged ahead with its future by officially launching as an academy.

The former Heathfield Foundation Technology College became Ormiston Forge Academy on Thursday (February 9).

The opening ceremony was attended by Halesowen MP James Morris, the Mayor of Sandwell councillor Joyce Underhill and CEO of the Teenage Cancer Trust, Peter Murray.

There were speeches, ribbon cutting and a balloon launch. Students took part in workshops staged by the Teenage Cancer Trust and plan to fundraise for the charity over the coming year.

Pupils are also planning a non-uniform day in March to support Sports Relief.

The Wrights Lane school, under the leadership of new principal Andrew Burns, is one of 17 shcools across the country being sponsored by The Ormiston Trust.