Academy Conversions

A Church School which converts to an academy will automatically maintain its religious designation. The appropriate documents for church schools which guarantee their ethos and protect the position of trustees are available from the DfE.

Before making an application to convert to academy status, school governing bodies and headteachers should thoroughly consider a number of issues and be prepared to discuss these in detail with relevant stakeholders and the DBE (through the Diocesan Director of Education). Before supporting a church school wishing to obtain academy status, the DBE will need to be satisfied that converting to an academy is in the best interest of the school, its pupils and the wider context in which the school operates.

How the DBE is represented on the academy trust:

  • The academy agreement, Memorandum and Articles of Association and land agreement will be those appropriate for Church of England schools;

  • The consultation processes demonstrates widespread support for the proposal, including from any other body who appoints governors.

  • There is a viable business plan, a due diligence exercise has been carried out and all risks arising mitigated;

  • The school can demonstrate its commitment to collaborative working, particularly with the DBE and the wider school family;

  • The proposed admissions policy complies with the DBE's guidance;

  • The school agrees that any extra costs incurred by the DBE in establishing the academy will be borne by the school, using its own funds and the £25k set up grant available from DfE.