Academy Consultation
CONSULTATION ON PROPOSED ACADEMY CONVERSION
Introduction
Welcome to our consultation for the proposed academy conversion of Tarporley CofE Primary school. On this page you should find all the information you need to make an informed decision on the proposed conversion.
The governors and school leaders at Tarporley CofE Primary school have taken the decision to consider applying for academy status and joining Chester Diocesan Academies Trust (CDAT). This decision has been made following many months of extensive research and consideration of a range of multi academy trusts.
Governors and leaders have met with representatives Chester Diocesan Academies Trust (CDAT), have talked to other schools who are already part of CDAT and to other local schools.
In considering applying for academy status, school leaders and governors have looked at the range of academy trust options available to us as a church school, and believe that CDAT would be the best choice for our school. We strongly believe this will bring enormous benefits for our pupils and our staff.
Benefits of Academy Status
Joining a multi-academy trust (MAT) can offer several benefits for a local authority (LA) school. Here are some of the advantages:
- Autonomy: While still being part of a larger network, joining a MAT can grant schools more autonomy than they might have had under the local authority. This autonomy can extend to areas such as curriculum development, staffing, budget management, and decision-making processes.
- Collaboration and Support: MATs often provide a support network and opportunities for collaboration among member schools. Schools within the trust can share resources, expertise, and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This collaborative environment can lead to better outcomes for students and staff alike.
- Access to Resources: MATs may have access to additional resources, both financial and non-financial, which can benefit member schools. This could include centralised services such as HR, finance, IT support, and professional development opportunities for staff.
- Flexibility and Innovation: MATs may have more flexibility to innovate and try new approaches to teaching and learning. This can be particularly beneficial for schools looking to implement innovative educational practices or address specific challenges in their community.
- Improved Financial Stability: Joining a MAT can provide greater financial stability for schools, as they may benefit from pooled resources, economies of scale, and more efficient budget management practices. This can help schools navigate financial challenges and ensure that resources are used effectively to support teaching and learning.
- Opportunities for Growth and Development: MATs can offer opportunities for career progression and professional development for staff. This might include access to training programs, leadership development initiatives, and pathways for career advancement within the trust.
- Shared Ethos and Values: MATs often have a shared ethos or vision that aligns with the values of member schools. This can create a sense of belonging and shared purpose among staff, students, and parents, fostering a strong sense of community within the trust.
Overall, it is felt that joining a multi-academy trust can provide LA schools with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive and improve outcomes for their children.
Information about CDAT
CDAT was established by the Chester Diocesan Board of Education in 2014. Since their inception, they have developed their vision to build thriving learning communities that provide everyone with the opportunity to achieve the very best with their gifts and abilities.
CDAT is a fully inclusive trust. Their vision and ethos are firmly rooted in clear, core Christian values, but they are happy to work with both church and community schools, their schools welcome people of all faiths and none. They offer an educational experience that is rooted in faith, hope and love. They support their schools to ensure that their vision permeates all aspects of school life.
Children are at the heart of CDAT. They want each individual to develop knowledge, skills, understanding and wisdom, underpinned by values based on principles that are important to people of all faiths and no faith.
Jesus said, 'I have come in order that you might have life, life in all its fullness.' (John 10:10)
CDAT wants every child to experience 'life in all its fullness': to have outstanding learning opportunities; opportunities to act, sing, dance, play sport and be artistic; opportunities to make lifelong friendships, help those in need and become full and rounded individuals; opportunities to develop and pursue ambitions. In short, they want the very best for all of their children.
More information can be found on their website via the following link www.cdat.co.uk
Consultation Process
The consultation period will run from Monday 25th March to Friday 3rd May.
There will be a consultation held on 24th April. Parents and carers will be given the opportunity to learn more about what academy status.
One of CDAT’s senior leadership team will be joining us at the meeting to share more about the trust and to answer questions.
The meeting will be held at the school as follows:
Wednesday 24th April 5.30pm - 6.30pm
A feedback form can be found at the bottom of this web page. All response should be submitted by 4.00pm on Friday 26th April with any questions, comments, or concerns you may have.
There will be a box in the school office for returned forms, which will be kept anonymous.
You can also email the school with your feedback – please use the email address admin@tarporleyce.cheshire.sch.uk and put ‘Consultation’ in the subject line.
If you are unable to attend this session, but would like further information or would like to respond to our consultation, you can contact the school in the following ways:
Telephone: 01829 708188
Email: admin@tarporleyce.cheshire.sch.uk
Next Steps
We expect that, if we do confirm our decision for Tarporley CofE Primary School to convert to academy status and join Chester Diocesan Academies Trust (CDAT), that the formal application and conversion process will take around 12 months.
You can stay informed by checking the website for updates.
Thank you for your interest and participation in the consultation process.
Your feedback and involvement in shaping the future of the school really are important to us.
