ARK Schools was created to work with the government's academies programme to raise standards in inner-city schools.

Academies are non-selective, state-funded schools for local children, established by sponsors. As a sponsor, ARK Schools contributes towards the capital cost of the project or towards an endowment fund for the academy. Once the school is open, the DfE provides continuing funding on a comparable basis to other state schools in the area.

ARK Schools academies are mixed and non-selective, offering local children a first class education and the chance to achieve the academic qualifications and skills that will enable them to go on to higher education.

As well as providing the best opportunities for their pupils, ARK academies play an important part in the regeneration of communities. The academies are a significant focus for learning for students, their families and the local community.

For more information on the academies programme, see: http://www.standards.dcsf.gov.uk/academies/