In 2025, the opportunity to open a government-funded free school in the UK is still very much alive. These schools are independent but government-funded, designed to offer an alternative to traditional state schools. If you’ve ever thought about establishing a school to improve educational opportunities for your community, a free school might be your chance.
In this guide, we’ll explore how you can set up a free school, the government funding options available, and the steps you need to take to ensure your school is approved and running successfully.
What Are Free Schools?
Free schools are independent schools that are funded by the government but operate outside local authority control. They are designed to give parents, teachers, charities, and community groups the ability to set up schools in areas where they feel there’s a need for more educational choice or better educational standards.
Since their introduction, over 250 free schools have opened across England, and more are planned each year. These schools aim to cater to students from all backgrounds and provide more diverse education options.
Who Can Set Up a Free School?
The government has made it possible for various groups to set up a free school. The groups who can establish a free school include:
- Teachers – Educators looking to create innovative teaching methods and school systems.
- Parents – Groups of parents who want better schooling options for their children.
- Charities – Non-profit organisations focused on improving educational opportunities.
- Community Groups – Local groups who want to provide better educational access for their community.
- Once approved, these schools are free for students and receive government funding to run independently.
Steps to Set Up a Free School
If you’re interested in setting up a free school, follow these steps:
- Visit the New Schools Network (NSN) Website
The New Schools Network provides expert guidance and advice to anyone looking to start a free school. Visit their website for detailed information and support.
Contact:
Phone: 020 7537 9208
Email: [email protected]
- Review the Department for Education (DfE) Guidelines
The DfE oversees the approval process for new free schools. Ensure that you meet their guidelines and criteria before applying. - Submit Your Application
The DfE accepts applications three times a year. The application must clearly show how the proposed school will improve education in the local community. The process is straightforward and typically takes just over a year from approval to opening.
The DfE ensures that the approval process is quick, so once your school is approved, you can get started within a short time.
How Are Free Schools Funded?
Free schools receive government funding similar to that of maintained schools. This funding is provided by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and follows the National Funding Formula (NFF).
Funding Components Include:
- School Budget Share – Similar to local authority maintained schools.
- Minimum Funding Guarantee (MFG) – Ensures a stable funding increase per pupil.
- High Needs Funding – For students requiring special educational support.
- Start-up Funding – For newly established schools.
- Funding is provided based on pupil numbers and is distributed in monthly payments.
For 2025-2026
The NFF allocation for the upcoming academic year has been confirmed, and the General Annual Grant (GAG) will be issued in early 2025.
How to Access Funding Statements
Schools can access their funding statements through the Manage Your Education and Skills Funding (MYESF) portal. To view the statements:
- Log in to DfE Sign-in.
- Request access to the MYESF service.
- Select the ‘View Allocation Statements’ option.
- Submit the request for approval.
Once approved, you can view your school’s funding details and access the necessary documents to plan your budget and manage your school’s finances.
What Happens If I Don’t Have Enough National Insurance (NI) Contributions?
If you’re considering establishing a free school as part of a community or charity, you must ensure that your NI contributions are sufficient, especially if you plan on becoming part of the school’s management. The UK government provides support and guidance through the Future Pension Centre to help you with pension contributions and other necessary paperwork.
Setting up a free school in the UK is a great way to contribute to improving education in your local area. With government funding and expert advice available, it has never been easier to turn your educational vision into reality. Follow the steps outlined above, seek advice from the New Schools Network, and ensure you meet the DfE’s guidelines to give your school the best chance of success.
If you’re unsure about the funding options or application process, contacting the Future Pension Centre or a financial adviser can help clarify your next steps.
Source
https://www.gov.uk/government/get-involved/take-part/set-up-a-new-school
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/academies-funding-allocations
FAQ’s
What is a free school in the UK?
A free school is a government-funded, independent school that operates outside local authority control. They provide additional educational choices for children from all backgrounds.
How can I set up a free school in the UK?
To set up a free school, you need to apply to the Department for Education (DfE) through their application process. Visit the New Schools Network website for guidance and support.
How is a free school funded?
Free schools are funded by the government, and their funding is allocated based on pupil numbers, using the National Funding Formula (NFF) and paid monthly through the ESFA.
What are the funding options for a free school in 2025?
The funding options for free schools include school budget share, minimum funding guarantee, high needs funding, and start-up funding, which are allocated annually based on pupil numbers.
What is the application process for setting up a free school?
You must submit an application to the DfE during their three annual application rounds. The proposal should demonstrate how the school will meet local educational needs.
