SEPARATE plans to create two ‘free schools’ in Chester have moved a step closer to becoming a reality.
Both the proposed University Cathedral School – based in one of the historic buildings in Abbey Square – and St Martin’s Academy have progressed to a crucial stage in the application process.
The proposals are now presented to experts from the Department for Education, who will rule on whether funding should be granted to set the new schools up by September next year.
Two ambitious Chester headteachers, who do not want to be named for fear of unsettling their current schools, are behind the St Martin’s Academy plan.
They submitted their proposal under the name ‘North West Academies’ and were interviewed by the panel on Monday.
The preferred location for the school was St Martin’s Lodge, next to the HQ building in Chester, but that will be bought by upmarket pub chain Brunning and Price.
As a result two potential city centre sites and one just outside have been earmarked for the school.
A spokesperson for North West Academies said: “The interview went really well. We should find out their decision in mid-July.
“Our project team has a wealth of educational and business expertise and we don’t see why we can’t provide exactly the same opportunities as fee-paying schools but for everybody – not just those that can afford it.”
The University of Chester Academies Trust, who along with Chester Cathedral are behind the free school plan in Abbey Square, will present their case on Tuesday, May 29.
Peter-Howell Jones, Vice-Dean of Chester Cathedral, said: “We are delighted to have been called to the second stage of the selection process.
“Clearly, our ambition to provide outstanding primary education with a specific focus on music and the voice has been recognised by the Department for Education, and we look forward to explaining further our vision to them.”
Free schools are state-funded and can be set up and run by education experts, trusts, charities, parents or community groups to address a specific need.
For details about the University Cathedral School bid visit UCAT.chester.ac.uk. For more information on St Martin’s Academy email info@northwestacademies.co.uk.
