UPDATE on Academisation of Sixth Form Colleges

Following a meeting with the DfE this week, we confirm a short update for Sixth Form Colleges.

First Sixth Form College conversion - The earliest possible conversions would probably be 1st September 2016, though it is felt this date would be optimistic.

Guidance - The DfE are expecting to publish guidance about the academisation of Sixth Form Colleges on or around 19th February 2016. This will cover more of the practical issues, such as what the process will be, and the DfE's policy position on common issues that are likely to be encountered by Colleges.

MAT status – It is not expected that Sixth Form Colleges will be required to have Multi-Academy Trust status, though we expect that the DfE will prefer this and in any event require Sixth Form Colleges to demonstrate how they will strengthen partnerships and collaborations with others.

Funding / Grants - There will not be a fixed conversion grant, but there will be an opportunity to apply for project costs incurred.

Uptake – The DfE anticipates around 30-50 SFCs might convert.

Area Reviews - The area reviews and potential conversions will be dealt with in 5 waves. DfE details here:

Policy paper - Reviewing post-16 education and training institutions: area reviews (waves 1 and 2)

Policy paper - Reviewing post-16 education and training institutions: area reviews (waves 3 – 5)

12 February 2016