Applications for Free Schools opening in 2015 and beyond
In order to give Free School applicants more flexibility, we will now run three application rounds each year. Groups may select the year in which they intend to open. A final decision on the school’s opening date will be confirmed during the 'pre-opening' period. This will be based on the length of time that the school needs in the ‘pre-opening’ phase.
The next three application deadlines will be:
- September 2013 (with decisions to be announced in late 2013/early 2014).
- January 2014 (with decisions to be announced in spring 2014).
- Spring 2014 (with decisions to be announced in summer 2014).
The precise dates will be included in the 'How to Apply guidance' released in May 2013.
We expect that application rounds will follow a similar pattern in future years.
We are making some other changes to the application process and criteria. Further information can be found in the Changes to the Free School process, Changes to the Free School criteria and What have successful applications looked like? downloads.
Applications for Free Schools opening in 2014
The window to submit an application to open a Free School in 2014 closed at 6.00pm on Friday 4 January 2013.
The guidance, forms and templates that were used are available here for information only.
We expect to inform applicants of the outcome of their application in May 2013.
Other helpful information
The frequently asked questions about Free Schools provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Free Schools.
The New Schools Network can provide information and advice on how to set up a Free School.
Contact details
New Schools Network
Organisation type: Other
8th Floor, Westminster Tower
3 Albert Embankment
London
SE1 7SP
Telephone: 020 7537 9208
Website: http://www.newschoolsnetwork.org/
