Frequently Asked Questions

What is a new school?
New schools are independent, state-funded schools. They have the same legal status as academies.

Are new schools able to make a profit?
No. New schools can only be set up and run on a not-for-profit basis by a charitable Trust. The school will be run by the Headteacher and their leadership team and they will be answerable to a Board of Governors.

When did the school open?
The school opened on 23rd August 2021.
 
Which year groups does the school have?
The school opened to children in Reception for the 2021/22 academic year, and will welcome a new cohort of up to 30 Reception places each year.

Are New schools selective?
No. All new schools have to follow the Admissions Code in the same way as all state-funded schools and our inclusive admissions policy will at all times be open, transparent and fair. We will be working closely with colleagues at the Department for Education and at the Local Authority throughout the admissions process. Children of all abilities, from all backgrounds, of all faiths and none, will be welcome to apply.

Will Ashby Hastings Primary School be inspected by Ofsted?
Yes. All New schools are subject to inspection in the same way as other academies and schools. The school will also be inspected by Ofsted prior to opening and will be subject to termly visits from the Department for Education during its first year.

How will the school be accountable?
The school will be run by a Board of Governors who will be accountable to the charitable Trust which oversees the school, the Symphony Learning Trust. In addition the school will be accountable to the Secretary of State for Education through the terms of its Funding Agreement.