FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend the school?
Applications will be welcome from local children of any faith or none.

Who would run the school?
It will be a school that is part of Houlton Church of England Multi Academy Trust, operated by the Diocese of Coventry and Urban&Civic, with a governing body that will include representatives from the Church, parents and staff, and others who have the skills to contribute to the governance of a successful school.

What does the Church of England know about schools?
It has been involved in education in the region for over 150 years and there are 74 Church of England Primary and Secondary Schools in the Diocese. Our record of success is very high, with most of our schools being graded ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted: substantially higher than the national average. The Diocese partnership with Urban&Civic means that the local developer with a key stake in creating a successful and thriving community is also involved in the education of the local children. Their commitment to the future success of the community is established through this Trust partnership.

What is the timetable for opening the school?
The Houlton Church of England Multi Academy Trust are working to ensure St Gabriel’s is ready to open in 2018, including:

• Appointment of first-class staff to support the Headteacher;
• Development of the site;
• Education plans and policies;
• Procurement of services needed to operate the school;
• Preparing for the checks made by Ofsted and the Department for Education before we open.

Is the school selective?
No. St Gabriel’s CofE Academy will follow the national Admissions Code like all state-funded schools. Applications will be welcome from local children of any faith and none. Our Admissions Policy can be seen here.

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. In addition, the school will also be accountable to the Department for Education through the terms of its Funding Agreement.