“Imagine a school with a history stretching back to 1699. That’s Ark Burlington Danes Academy for you. A Church of England school with a story to tell.
Ark Burlington Danes Academy started from humble beginnings. It traces its roots to two schools. St Clement Danes Grammar School for boys. Burlington Church of England School for Girls. Both were originally in Westminster.
The story takes a turn in 1976. St Clement Danes Grammar School moved away. A new school emerged on its old site. This was Burlington Danes School.
Fast forward to September 2015. Ark Burlington Danes Academy became an all-through school. A primary school opened its doors. The academy grew.
The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 brought a new challenge. Ark Burlington Danes Academy stepped up. It provided a safe space for traumatised students. These students came from Kensington Aldridge Academy.
The school grounds are vast. They span 10 acres in central London. The Dennis Potter Building stands proudly. It is named after the playwright. He was an alumnus of St Clement Danes.
The main hall is attached to a listed brick building. Frederick MacManus designed it in 1936. He worked for Burnet, Tait and Lorne. The building connects to other wings. There is a technology and art wing. Also an area for physical education. Not to forget a large sports hall.
In 2008 new buildings were added. They house science labs, maths and English classes. The site also has a large field. Here students play rugby, football and cricket. An astroturf football pitch was added in 2010. A state of the art gym was fitted in 2012. This is in the Stanley Fink building.
Ark Burlington Danes Academy has a rich history. It has adapted to meet the needs of its students. From its origins in 1699 to its modern facilities. The academy continues to provide education. It also helps shape future generations. The principal is David Carr.
The academy has high expectations. They aim high. Students are encouraged to be brave. They support individuals to be the best version of themselves. They keep learning.
The school has some fantastic facilities. It is the largest school site in Central London. It has state of the art sporting facilities. These include a professional quality gym. There is also a third generation astro-turf pitch. Furthermore there are numerous tennis courts. It has one of the largest school playing fields in London.
The original Burlington Building is Grade 2 Listed. It is one of the only examples of a school built in the 1920s Art Deco Nautical style. There are drama and dance studios. A recording suite is also available. The academy also has a professional standard theatre. These facilities provide a high quality environment. This environment accommodates a range of curricular and enrichment opportunities for students at Ark Burlington Danes Academy.”