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  • Becoming an academy

Academy conversion: FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about academy conversion, with advice from the DfE and Forbes Solicitors.

Last reviewed on 2 December 2024
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 12271
Contents
  1. What's the process to convert to an academy?
  2. Which schools can convert?
  3. Can we change our mind about converting to an academy after consulting?
  4. If we change our mind and decide to join a MAT, do we need to consult again?
  5. How can we convert to a co-operative MAT?
  6. Does an academy joining a MAT keep its company registration number?
  7. Does a VC school need to gain consent from its trust?
  8. Could Ofsted take a negative view of my school if we don't convert?
  9. How can we estimate our budget until our conversion date?
  10. What if my school has a budget deficit?
  11. What if my school has a budget surplus?
  12. Can we bring forward the academy conversion date?
  13. What happens to a federation when schools convert?
  14. What are the implications of academisation on nursery provision?
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What's the process to convert to an academy?

You can find the step-by-step process for academy conversion in our other article. It includes a checklist of all the tasks you'll need to complete.

Which schools can convert?

  • Mainstream primary and secondary schools: apply using the DfE's online services (this includes sixth form colleges applying to become 16 to 19 academies – see more information from the DfE here)
  • Special schools: use the paper application form for special schools
  • Pupil referral units (PRUs): use the form for PRUs wishing to convert to alternative provision academies

Stand-alone nursery schools cannot currently convert to an academy.

For more support, see the DfE's document pack for academy conversion.

Can we change our mind about converting to an academy after consulting?

If your

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