House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Mainstream Free Schools
22 October 2024 · Department for Education
Proposed by Bridget Phillipson Lab Houghton and Sunderland South
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The review will assess the need for 44 planned mainstream free schools that have not yet opened.
- Local needs, financial efficiency, and curriculum distinctiveness will be key considerations in the review.
- Officials will engage with local authorities and academy trusts throughout the autumn.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the review of mainstream free schools planned by the previous government but not yet opened, focusing on assessing their need for local areas and value for money.
Action requested
Officials have been asked to review 44 centrally delivered, mainstream free school projects that have not yet opened. The review will consider local needs, financial efficiency, curriculum distinctiveness, and impact on existing schools. Local authorities and academy trusts will be engaged in this process over the autumn.
Key facts
- In 2017, an estimated 57,500 new mainstream free school places amounted to spare capacity.
- The review focuses on 44 centrally delivered mainstream projects that have not yet opened.
- Special and alternative provision free schools are excluded from this review but will continue as planned.