Co-operative Academies

Co-operative Academies are schools that want to access the additional freedoms and funding that are available in the academy model but also build in important aspects such as a voice for key stakeholder groups.

There are a number of different forms of academy available

Converter Academies

Schools who meet the criteria for conversion to academy status are able to select a Co-operative Academy model. This has been created by the Co-operative College and Cobbetts and is now approved by the DfE.

Schools that choose to adopt a Co-operative Model for conversion to academy status have the advantage that they

• agree to adopt the internationally agreed Co-operative Values as a basis for their work.
• guarantee to provide a voice for the key stakeholders in their school and lcoal community (eg parents, staff, learners and members of the local community)
• can work with the wide range of other Co-operative Schools through membership of the Schools Co-operative Society.

Many schools are considering this form of model to preserve their links with their local communities, ensure they work closely with key groups such as staff, parents, learners and the local community to do the best they can for the pupils in their care...

Co-operative College, Manchester

The Co-operative College has extensive experience of supporting schools convert to academy status. If a school or governing body is considering this option, SCS recommends that they approach them.

Further details

• The Co-op College will support schools wanting to convert. Their details and how to contact them can be found on their website.
• The DFE guidance is available here

Academies with a Sponsor

The Co-operative Group, the UK's largest consumer co-operative sponsors three academies in Manchester, Leeds and Stoke-on-trent.

Information about the work of the Co-operative Group and Academies can be found on their website.

SCS is an approved sponsor and will consider sponsoring a school for conversion to an academy. This is currently only available in certain circumstances and to existing members of the Schools Co-operative Society. Schools must already by a full member of SCS to be considered.