Ascent was founded with the aim of developing a vision and strategic plan for special educational needs in Sunderland.

By collaboratively working together they are not only able to increase the opportunities they can offer their own students and staff, but are also able to offer their specialist knowledge to schools and academies across Sunderland, through their advice, consultancy and training arm of the company Ascent Extra Limited. Each academy brings to Ascent its own wealth of knowledge and expertise within their area.