Our students deserve the very best education. The proposal to open a 14 – 19 Free School in Stoke Golding Leicestershire is about creating new opportunities to raise standards and to provide new ways to help all students enjoy learning and achieve their best.

 

What is a Free School?

A Free School is a new type of school. It is funded directly by central Government as long as there is sufficient community, parent and student support. A Free School is still a state school and subject to Ofsted inspections. It has more freedom to make decisions about teaching and learning, staff and resources.

When would the school open?

It is proposed that the 14 -19 Free School would open in September 2013. Initial plans would be to start with school year group 10.

What are the aims of the new School?

Plans would be to:

• Raise academic standards
• Raise aspirations of learners and their families
• Improve the provision of community services for young and old

The aim is for exceptional academic achievement, so that students, staff and the community are proud to be part of the School. The Governors would support teachers and staff so they can focus on student progress, not administration.

How will teaching/learning be different?

The School’s curriculum would reflect the flavour of the English Baccalaureate – which demands GCSE grade C in a variety of academic subjects.

Would my child be able to go to the Free School?

The Catholic 14 – 19 Free School is selective but open to children of all abilities and faiths. If you child is a student at another secondary school you can move her/him to the school, as long as there are places available. Once open the first step would be to contact the admissions team at Leicestershire County Council.

How would my child be cared for?

As this would be a small secondary school, staff would get to know their students as individuals. The school would provide dedicated pastoral staff and work in partnership with families to maintain a safe and caring environment. Communication will be clear and open at all times.

What happens to my views?

It is vital for the success of our project that we obtain information about the demand for this proposed 14-19 Free School. The views of parents, carers, students and people in the local community really matter so it is important that you complete the questionnaire. We will pass on your views to the Secretary of State for Education who will then decide if Saint Martin’s Catholic 14 – 19 Free School should go ahead.

If you support our vision please click on the link below by 20th February to complete the 14-19 Free School Survey”