What is an Academy?

Academies are all-ability, state-funded schools established and managed by sponsors from a wide range of backgrounds.

Academies are set up with the backing of their local authority. They are not maintained by the local authority but they do work closely with it and are funded at a level comparable to other local schools in their area.

All academies are bound by the same School Admissions Code, SEN Code of Practice and exclusions guidance as all other state-funded schools. Academies are also required to follow the National Curriculum programmes of study in English, Maths, Science and ICT.

All academies have specialist school status and have a specialism in at least one area. The East Manchester Academy has specialisms in the Built Environment and the Performing Arts.