Member

The letter referred to areas with a projected shortfall in 2028 but also highlighted the number of schools in the free school pipeline. There are three elements in delivering a new free school. First, the need needs to be identified: the local authority puts together a plan, consults with the community and defines the scope of the school. All those responsibilities sit with the local authority. Secondly, running the school and making sure it delivers the highest possible educational quality rests with the academy trust. Finally, regulation sits with the Secretary of State.