Frequently Asked Questions
What is an academy?
An academy is an independently managed and governed specialist state school, directly funded by the Government at the same level as a specialist comprehensive school in the area.
They are established and managed by independent sponsors, and funded by the Government at a level comparable to other local schools. No fees are paid by parents. They are the successors to the City Technology Colleges introduced in 1987.
Some academies are brand new schools in areas needing extra school places. Others replace weak or underperforming schools; outstanding schools may also apply to become academies.
Visit the DFE website to find out more about the Academies Programme.
How did ULT become involved in setting up academies?
ULT was chosen for this programme because of its impressive and trusted track record in education.
ULT is a subsidiary of the United Church Schools Trust (UCST), which has been running high-quality schools in the indepenent sector for more than 125 years and currently operates 11 flourishing independent schools. This unique private-public sector partnership offers matchless opportunities for cross-fertilisation. UCST schools and ULT academies stimulate each other's performance through joint training, curriculum development and their approach to a relentless agenda of educational improvement and innovation.
How transparent are the financial arrangements?
We believe that transparency of finance is essential. Because academies are not given financial advantage over other state-funded schools, strict financial management is critical. The UCST central office handles the administration of both schools and academies.
How are the ULT academies financed?
Academies are financed separately by the Government through a contract with ULT and do not receive any subsidy from UCST. This means that none of the fees that parents pay go into the Academies Programme. All operating costs are paid for by the Government and all sponsorship is fundraised separately.
