An academy is a state funded school run by a local sponsor.  Only recently have higher education institutions been able to sponsor academies, and the Local Authority have arranged for UCCA to sponsor the academy they are proposing for Strood.

The first academies were started up to replace schools in difficulties, therefore the reputation of academies is not always very positive.  Although a new academy would bring a new building and good facilities, it is good quality teaching in a safe atmosphere that we feel is most important.  We believe that the success of Chapter in these areas should not be compromised by any future plans. This view is shared by Lord Adonis of the DCSF.

You can read here about academies on the DCFS website.