Academy Introduction info
What are Academies?
Academies are free, government-funded schools that provide a fresh approach to learning and state-of-the-art facilities to raise standards of achievement among all students of all abilities. There are already over 80 Academies open around the country, offering students and local communities' greater learning opportunities. Each Academy is individual and develops to reflect local needs.
What are the criteria for a school to become an Academy?
Some Academies are brand new schools in areas which need the extra school places. Most of them replace schools where student achievement is an issue. As a broad rule of thumb, the Government is prepared to consider any secondary school where in 2007 fewer than 30% of pupils gained five or more GCSEs at grades A* – C (including English and Maths) as a potential Academy project. In addition, local authorities should always consider an Academy as an option for dealing with a school in special measures, or subject to an improvement notice, whatever its results. Sponsors may also enter an Academy proposal in any of the competitions now required under the Education and Inspections Act 2006 for most new and replacement schools, regardless of whether the normal standards criteria for an Academy apply. The competition decision maker must consider all proposals on their individual merits, having consulted the Department on whether it would be willing to enter into a funding agreement in the event of the Academy succeeding in the competition.
Academies are free, government-funded schools that provide a fresh approach to learning and state-of-the-art facilities to raise standards of achievement among all students of all abilities. There are already over 80 Academies open around the country, offering students and local communities' greater learning opportunities. Each Academy is individual and develops to reflect local needs.
What are the criteria for a school to become an Academy?
Some Academies are brand new schools in areas which need the extra school places. Most of them replace schools where student achievement is an issue. As a broad rule of thumb, the Government is prepared to consider any secondary school where in 2007 fewer than 30% of pupils gained five or more GCSEs at grades A* – C (including English and Maths) as a potential Academy project. In addition, local authorities should always consider an Academy as an option for dealing with a school in special measures, or subject to an improvement notice, whatever its results. Sponsors may also enter an Academy proposal in any of the competitions now required under the Education and Inspections Act 2006 for most new and replacement schools, regardless of whether the normal standards criteria for an Academy apply. The competition decision maker must consider all proposals on their individual merits, having consulted the Department on whether it would be willing to enter into a funding agreement in the event of the Academy succeeding in the competition.
