Academies are independent schools within the State Sector, held in charitable trusts, with independent governance and responsibility for their own teachers.

They are co-educational secondary schools, often with a sixth form, serving inner city communities and also some rural areas.

Academies may be associated with local primary schools helping them to act as a through school, ensuring continuity of ethos, learning and records.

Entry is free and open to all children regardless of background or religion.