What is the Difference Between School and Academy?

The main difference between a school and an academy lies in the level of education they provide and their structure. Here are the key differences:

• Definition: A school is an institution for educating children under the direction of teachers, and it is part of the formal education system in a country. An academy, on the other hand, is an institution of secondary education that can refer to societies for scientists or specialized training in a specific area.
• Level of Education: Schools generally provide primary and secondary education, while academies often offer higher education or specialized courses in a particular field.
• Structure: Schools are typically part of the public education system and are overseen by the local authority. Academies, however, are publicly funded but independently operated, allowing them more freedom in curriculum design, school hours, term dates, and staff pay and conditions.
• Curriculum: Academies have more freedom to design their curriculum, while schools are usually required to follow a set curriculum.
• Funding: Both schools and academies receive government funding, but academies also have the option of receiving additional funding from various sponsors.
• Specialization: Academies often have a specialized focus, such as arts, sports, or sciences, while schools generally cater to a broader range of subjects and disciplines.

In summary, schools are institutions that provide primary and secondary education as part of the formal education system, while academies are often specialized institutions that offer higher education or specialized courses in specific fields.

Comparative Table: School vs Academy

Based on the search results, there is no direct information about the difference between a school and an academy. However, I can provide you with a general understanding of the two terms.

A school refers to an educational institution that provides learning and teaching to students. Schools can be of various types, such as primary schools, secondary schools, and high schools. They typically follow a curriculum and are governed by a board of education or a similar authority.

An academy, on the other hand, often refers to a private educational institution that may have a more specialized focus. Academies can be dedicated to specific fields of study, such as arts, sciences, or sports. They may have a more flexible curriculum and are often funded by private sources.

Here is a table summarizing the general differences between a school and an academy:

Please note that this table is based on general information and may not apply to all schools and academies.