Ark Schools could be stripped of a Birmingham academy where inspectors found widespread homophobia, “frequent” sexual harassment and rising suspensions of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
The inspectorate also criticised a “culture of sanctions” and heavy use of suspensions and alternative provision at all-through Ark Kings Academy. It said pupils with special educational needs and disabilities were more likely to be suspended, and “do not have their needs met”.
A termination warning notice issued by Andrew Warren, regional schools commissioner for the West Midlands, has been published today. Ark, one of England’s largest multi-academy trusts, also had until today to make its case to keep the school. The trust said intensive work is already underway and the school will “improve rapidly over the coming months”.
