NORTH Lincolnshire's first revolutionary academy has welcomed the interest by four other schools in the pioneering status.

St Lawrence Academy, in Scunthorpe, became the region's first ever church-backed education academy in October 2008.

The school, based on Doncaster Road, is sponsored by the Church of England.

In return for the church's investment of 10 per cent of the capital cost, it is able to input into the curriculum, ethos, specialisms and has the power to appoint governors.

Principal Joan Barnes said: "Having other academies in North Lincolnshire will give students and parents more educational choice which is a positive thing.

"We would like to work collaboratively with any other academies rather than be in competition.

"We had tremendous support from pupils' parents and that is extremely important.

"It is crucial that parents share your same vision and ethos."

Since gaining academy status, changes at the former High Ridge Specialist Sports College include the introduction of a new motto, logo, and the formation of a parents' council and a strong emphasis on the teaching of the sciences.

"Because of the funding given to the academy we were able to improve facilities and develop a new front entrance, which is very welcoming to new visitors," said Mrs Barnes.

"The students were involved in the transformation process and we were able to broaden the variety of subjects available.

"As a result we now offer a more personalised curriculum which is very empowering for the pupils who have an ownership on their learning.

"They were engaged in the change process including the new uniforms and the new timetable."

Academies have the freedom to change the length of term times and the length of school days.

"At St Lawrence Academy we start at 8.30am each day. On a Monday and Tuesday the pupils finish at 3.40pm, on Wednesday and Thursday it is 2.40pm and on a Friday they leave at 1.05pm," said Mrs Barnes.

"The new structure has worked really well and all students are really positive about the changes.

"The school now has a wonderful atmosphere and we can offer lots of extra curricular activities and unique events at the school which is fantastic for students."

Head boy, Bradley Pama, 15, added: "Becoming an academy has really changed the atmosphere within school.

"Pupils have more ownership on a more specialised curriculum which means everyone is very enthusiastic and interested in their studies.

"The revised timetable means that everyone keeps their drive throughout the week and doesn't lose their concentration.

"Friday is like a treat as we get to go home at 1pm."

A spokesman from North Lincolnshire Council, which runs the local education authority, said: "As far as the council is aware, the schools mentioned have only just started the process by registering an interest.

"It is up to the governing body at each school to formally decide if they want to apply for academy status. The final approval lies with the Secretary of State."

The list is split into schools which have been graded 'outstanding' by the Government education watchdog Ofsted and those with lower gradings such as 'good' or 'satisfactory'.