Department For Education
Academy trusts must use the tier 1 or tier 3 application forms to apply for a significant change. From 1 May 2024, applications submitted using the previous full business case application form and fast track application form will no longer be processed.
The guidance on making significant changes to an open academy is for academy trusts wishing to make organisational changes to a school. Those include:
- physical expansion
- merging with another academy
- changing the schools age range
- changing the schools faith designation
The guidance sets out the significant change process and explains which application form to complete. It also sets out pupil place planning roles and a framework for collaborative school place planning. This is useful for:
- local authorities
- academies
- schools
- school governors
- trustees
- dioceses
The guidance on closure of an academy by mutual agreement explains when closure might be an appropriate solution to address standards or viability issues. It:
- sets out the process for closing an academy by mutual agreement with the Secretary of State
- provides guidance about when academy trusts should talk to other parties