Merchants’ Academy, an independent comprehensive school founded in 2008, is sponsored by the Society of Merchant Venturers together with the University of Bristol. The Society of Merchant Venturers, with its strong charitable interests, has been influential in Bristol for more than 450 years. Their commitment to education dates back to the 1550s and they founded and continue to play an important role in Colston’s School and Colston’s Girls’ School. The University of Bristol, as co-sponsor, is committed to encouraging the number of local students seeking a place within Higher Education. Its Graduate School of Education is highly regarded both nationally and internationally for its training of teachers and associated research.

After years of planning and preparation the Academy opened in September 2008 in award winning buildings. The founding Principal, Stephen Kings and Chair of Governors, Denis Burn, quickly established the Academy as a thriving educational institution. Parents and the community embraced the new Academy and greatly value the opportunities available to the young people. Anne Burrell was appointed as Principal in 2010 to lead the Academy through the next phase of transformation. The Academy opened its Army Cadet Force in spring 2011 in its own purpose built facilities, one of the very few in a state school in the country. The Academy was officially opened by HRH the Princess Royal in 2011 and in June 2011 the Ofsted Inspection reported:

“Merchants’ Academy is a good school where all students achieve well”.

Since opening, the Academy has significantly increased exam results and numbers of students on roll so that Y7 in 2011 is over-subscribed.