Tipton's troubled Ace Academy to be taken over by new trust

The Ace Academy in Tipton has been in special measures for two years

It is to leave control of the Education Central Multi-Academy Trust (ECMAT), run by the University of Wolverhampton.

Leaders at the academy, which has more than 1,400 pupils, formerly known as the Alexandra School, were told by Ofsted in April that not enough progress was being made to exit special measures.

Parents have now been informed that the school will be taken over by another trust in an effort to bring about the improvement needed.

A statement from ECMAT, which has been shared with parents, said: “The Regional Schools Commissioner has been working closely with Education Central Multi-Academy Trust to consolidate its secondary sponsor activity, to ensure quality education and progression for young people.

“As a result, approval has been given in principle for the transfer of the Ace Academy from Education Central Multi-Academy Trust to Quaerere Academies Trust.

“This is subject to a successful conclusion to discussions between the Department for Education, the Education and Skills Funding Agency, Education Central Multi-Academy Trust and Quaerere Academies Trust.

“In the interim period, both academy trusts are working together to support pupils and staff of the academy to ensure a smooth and successful transition.”

A series of parent evenings have been organised to discuss the changes.

In a letter to parents, interim headteacher Kerry Kernan said: “I hope we can rely on your support during this time of transition and look forward to welcoming you to our parent evenings. At these you will be able to hear about the plans.”

The Ace Academy, which is rated inadequate by Ofsted, has been beset by problems since converting to academy status, including attendance, behaviour and high staff turnover.

In January, it emerged concerns had been raised about the academy’s finances.