Vision for the Academy

1. Overview

1.1 The sponsor’s aim is to open an Academy to replace the existing John Bunyan Upper School, situated in the south of the town which exhibits several indicators of deprivation. It will, under the plans of the local authority to move to a two-tier system of education, also make provision for 11 and 12 year olds. The Academy will provide a world class education for 1200 students aged eleven to sixteen and 240 post sixteen students. It will open in September 2010 as a 13-18 Academy in the existing buildings and in 2012 move into new buildings. It will become an 11-18 Academy in line with the proposed changes to a 2 tier system in 2013. The Academy’s specialisms will be Science and Technology.

1.2 The Sponsors are the Bedford Charity (The Harpur Trust) and Bedford College. The Bedford Charity is a local foundation with a particular interest in education. The Charity and its schools will have strong continuing links with the Academy. The other main sponsor, Bedford College, is one of the most successful colleges of further and higher education in the country.

1.3 Other partners include Bedfordshire County Council, the Governors of John Bunyan School and the Governors of Harrowden and Abbey Middle Schools during transition and until two-tier arrangements are introduced. The partnership will include the new Bedford Borough Unitary Authority when it assumes responsibility for education. The University of Bedfordshire, which has particular expertise in teacher training and continuing professional development has also agreed to be a significant partner.

1.4 The Academy, currently the only one proposed within the new Borough of Bedford Unitary Authority, will be non-selective and will cooperate with other local schools, Bedford College and other local providers to cater for the needs of all students for whom a mainstream school is appropriate.

2. The Vision

2.1 The Academy will transform educational outcomes by providing exciting, new and different opportunities for learning and applied learning. As a vibrant and successful centre of excellence, with the highest standards of attendance and behaviour, it will bring about a substantial increase in the educational attainment, expectations and aspirations of students and the whole community.

3. Objectives of the Bedford Academy

3.1 The five objectives of the Academy are:

(i)To establish and maintain the highest standards of teaching and learning with inclusive systems for individual support and personalised learning that is never less than outstanding;

(ii)To provide a modern, forward-looking and exciting curriculum relevant to the aspirations of the students and community, ensuring the twin specialisms of Science and Technology are at the heart of a wide-ranging programme of opportunities both within and outside the Academy day;

(iii)To establish and nurture a strong partnership with parents and carers, strengthening support for families and involving the local community in the development of the Academy, including its use as a resource for the community;

(iv)To bring together a unique range of skills and resources to ensure that the education the Academy provides enables students to make the best possible choices for the future;

(v)To provide inspirational leadership promoting the highest possible standards of work and behaviour within a healthy, safe and inclusive 21st century environment.

3.2 Achievement of these objectives will mean that:

(i)The Bedford Academy will make a major difference to students’ life chances, developing and accrediting their knowledge, understanding and key skills as well as students’ contribution to the school. The Academy will contribute to growth in the economic well being of the local community. It will provide a powerful motivator for students to strive constantly to improve on their personal performance;

(ii)Students will have real life experiences, working in environments which reflect public sector and commercial standards. Every student will fulfil their potential and be on a well-supported pathway to a successful adult life;

(iii)Staff will work in partnership with families, other specialist staff and agencies to ensure a constant focus on the needs of individuals and to nurture integration and community cohesion, tolerance and respect for others;

(iv)Students and staff will be stimulated and inspired to innovate by working with partners from within the local education and business community and the local 14-19 partnership and they will regularly benefit from sharing their resources and facilities;

(v)Teaching, learning, leadership and personal development will be continually improved, developed and maintained.

3.3 The success of the Academy will be measured by:

(i)The general well being of its students, staff and parents. The pride they take in the Academy and the regard in which it is held in the community;

(ii)Results which rise rapidly to match those of outstanding schools, with high participation, excellent behaviour and regular attendance the norm;

(iii)The commitment of teachers and students who are truly dedicated, fair and respectful;

(iv)Students who are confident and effective independent learners and communicators willing to assume increasing responsibilities in the life and work of the Academy;

(v)Students who are active citizens with a clear plan for their future education, training and working life, well-supported and mentored by a range of staff and Academy partners;

(vi) The maintenance of a flexible and relevant educational programme, offering valued pathways to higher and further education including a wide programme of academic and applied learning. This will include GCSEs, AS and A-Levels, Diplomas and BTECs, with routes to Apprenticeships, National Vocational Qualifications and work with training;

(vii) Parents who are highly visible in the development, operation and daily use of the Academy; key stakeholder groups represented on the Board of Governors; the high participation of the community in a vibrant programme of cultural, sporting, artistic and social activities and lifelong learning fit for the 21st century;

(viii)The Academy governing body and staff who will be positive role models and champions, with leadership development and high quality continuing professional development for all being one of the highest priorities.