David and Anne Crossland
David and Anne Crossland believe that their academies should open doors of opportunity for all children and young people. They are ambitious for the academies they co-sponsor with the Church of England, believingthem to be inspirational places for learning and innovation for students, staff and the community that they serve.

David Crossland was founder and chairman of Airtours plc, one of the world’s largest holiday companies. He joined the travel industry in its infancy, over 40 years ago, and was instrumental in making quality holidays in exotic destinations accessible to all. Under his direction and leadership the company grew into a multi-national leisure travel group with major operations in 19 countries. From 1995 David served on the board of Carnival LLC for five years. Today this is the world’s largest cruise company. David is still actively involved in businesses in over eleven countries around the world.

David and Anne Crossland were born and grew up in the north west of England. They met early in David’s career and have worked together ever since. In 2002, rather than retire they decided to become both business and social entrepreneurs by using the skills and expertise they developed in their businesses for the benefit of young people and their communities. In September 2007 they successfully opened, with the Church of England, two academies in Darlington and Middleton. Along with a local partner they are investing their energy, expertise and money in a school for 190 children in Kenya. David and Anne also support a number of charities in the UK, Jersey and around the world.

The Church of England Diocese of Manchester
The Church of England has a long history of involvement in schools and education. Some 25% of primary school children are educated in Church of England schools, and 6% of secondary school students.

Maurice Smith CB, Director of Education at the Diocese of Manchester, says:

“The Academy is an exciting opportunity to offer all-age, all ability education in one school, and to improve overall attainment levels and life prospects in the Breightmet area. It also offers wider choices and opportunities to the entire community through adult learning. When the new buildings are complete, the Academy will be a state-of-the-art school that is right at the heart of the community.”

The Academy’s ethos will be based on Christian values which emphasise the value of every individual and fulfilling potential through achievement.