Headteachers from two schools explain the process involved in becoming an academy and offer advice and reflections.
The first step to becoming an academy is to open up the consultation process, by talking to staff and parents. Andrew Carter, headteacher at soon-to-be academy, South Farnham School, believes the secret to any consultation is to be completely honest.
Headteacher of Westlands Academy Trust, Jon Whitcombe, talks about the positive reaction from the school's parenting body when the suggestion for academy status was first raised.
The headteachers discuss the implications of an enhanced budget, which then has to cover the responsibility of insurances and services.
A school considering academy status, has to ensure questions have been raised on issues such as maternity arrangements, pensions and VAT, with the help of a good solictor and accountant.
