Opinion

‘It’s all about the money’: The REAL reason behind forced academisation

Why are the Conservatives intent on making every school into an academy? It’s not about standards, it’s all about...

Nick Linford
Nick Linford
Opinion

Education white paper’s ‘policy fantasies’ don’t address the real issues facing schools

The 2016 White Paper finishes the messy reforms began in 2010 to create a fully school-led system.  I announced...

Schools Week Reporter
Schools Week Reporter
Opinion

White Paper: Erosion of local authorities could see a ‘wild west’ race to the bottom

The first thing that is striking about the White Paper is the change of tone from Michael Gove’s era...

Sophie Scott
Sophie Scott
News, Opinion

What Is An Academy? (And other questions about converting schools)

The government has announced it wants all schools to become academies by 2022. But what are they? Editor Laura...

Nick Linford
Nick Linford
Opinion

‘This revolution in governance does not include barricades’

The multi academy trust is an increasingly common form of school governance. Should governors embrace the change or make...

Emma Knights
Emma Knights
Opinion

Education bill: Who will pay the bills as academies are passed around between trusts?

With the late inclusion of academies and free schools in new coasting schools legislation, schools could be passed around...

Phil Reynolds
Phil Reynolds
Opinion

‘Partnering up is the future for academies’

In 2011, two thirds of primary academies were standalone – but by 2015 65 per cent were in a...

Nicky Phillips
Nicky Phillips
Opinion

The 5 things we look for in schools wanting to join our academy trust

Educationists often are asked to behave like used car salesmen to promote their wares, but always take a proper...

Nicky Phillips
Nicky Phillips
Opinion

So you want to join an academy trust? Make sure you ask these 7 questions first

Many schools will be thinking about joining a trust or federation. This is probably a sensible response to rising...

Nicky Phillips
Nicky Phillips