Decision details

(1) To ADOPT the policy statement regarding the Council’s proposed approach to the development of academies and free schools and to the evolving role of the Council in working with schools;

(2) To ASK the lead member to review this policy statement periodically to ensure it remains current and reflects changes and developments in our local context.

The Government’s approach to the development of academies is a ‘permissive’ one, which allows schools (subject to certain conditions) to apply directly to the Department for Education (DfE) to be allowed to convert. Equally, any group which believes there is demand for a new free school can put forward proposals to DfE. Whilst the Council may choose to express a view about an application for an academy or a free school, the decision to approve rests with the Secretary of State.

The authority retains a number of statutory responsibilities for specific functions relating to academy pupils as well as an overall responsibility towards all children and young people in the area. It is appropriate for the authority to have a proactive and coherent approach to these developments and to its evolving role.

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