Aims of the programme

The aims of the specialist schools programme are to:

• Raise standards of achievement for all pupils in all subjects. In 2003 specialist schools achieved 56% 5+ A*-C grades at GCSE compared to 47% for non-specialist schools;
• Strengthen and develop the teaching of specialist subjects and disseminate best practice;
• Extend the range of opportunities available to pupils through specialist subjects, links with sponsors, businesses and other educational organisations;
• Collaborate with partner schools to provide or facilitate high quality learning opportunities in specialist subjects;
• Provide or facilitate high quality learning opportunities for the schools’ wider community.