Unit_6_Stl_1.2

Unit 6 1.2 Explain the characteristics of the different types of schools in relation to education stage(s) and school governance. There are many different types of schools in which young people can attend. Mainstream Schools All children in England between the ages of 5 and 16 are entitled to a free place at a state school. A high percentage go to state schools. Children normally start primary school at the age of 4 or 5, but many schools now have a reception year for 4 year olds. Children normally leave at the age of 11, moving onto secondary school. Most states schools admit both boys and girls however some are single-sex schools. The four main types of state school all receive funding from local authorities. They all follow the National curriculum and are regularly inspected by Ofsted. Community Schools A community school is fun by the local authority, which Employs the staff Owns the land and buildings Decided which ‘admissions criteria’ to use. Community schools look to develop strong links with the local community, sometimes offering use of their facilities and providing service of their childcare and adult learning classes. Foundation and Trust Schools Foundation schools are run by their own governing body, which employs the staff and sets the admissions criteria. Land and buildings are usually owned by the governing body or a charitable foundation. A Trust school is a type of foundation school which forms a charitable trust with an outside partner - for example, a business or education charity - aiming to raise standards and explore new ways of working. The decision to become a Trust school is taken by the governing body, with parents having a say. Voluntary-Aided Schools Voluntary-Aided schools are mainly religious or ‘faith schools’, although anyone can apply for a place. As with foundation schools, the governing body: Employs the staff Sets the admissions criteria School buildings and land are normally owned by a charitable foundation, often a religious organisation. The governing body contributes to building and maintenance costs. Voluntary-Controlled Schools Voluntary-Controlled schools are similar to voluntary-aided schools, but are run by the local authority. As with community schools, the local authority: Employs the school’s staff Sets the admission criteria School land and buildings are normally owned by a charity, often a religious organisation, which also appoints some of the members of the governing body. Specialist Schools Though they follow the National Curriculum specialist schools focus on a particular subject area. Examples include sports, technology or visual arts. State Schools with particular characteristics Academies Academies are independently managed, all ability schools. They are set up by sponsors form business, faith or voluntary groups in partnerships with the Department for Education and the local authority. Together they fund the land and buildings, with the government covering the running costs. City Tech Colleges These are independently managed, non fee paying schools in urban areas for pupils of all abilities aged 11 - 18. They are geared towards science, technology and the work of work, offering a range of vocational qualifications as well as GCSEs and A levels. Faith Schools Faith schools are mostly run in the same way as other state schools. However, their faith status may be reflected in their religious education curriculum, admissions criteria and staffing policies. Grammar Schools Grammar schools select all or most of their pupils based on academic ability. Maintained Boarding Schools Maintained boarding schools offer free tuition, but charge fees for board and lodging. Independent Schools There are around 2,300 independent schools in England. These school set their own curriculum and admissions policies. They are funded by fees paid by parnets and income from investments. Just over half have charitable status. Every independent school must be registered with the DfE. Standards are regularly monitored by either ofsted or an inspectorate approved by the Secretary of State, ensuring that the school maintains the standards set out in its registration documents.