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Free School Support
At PAG, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with establishing and managing free schools. With extensive experience and expertise in the free school programme, PAG offers tailored free school support services designed to guide applicants and providers through every stage of the process—from initial application to post-opening management. If you’re looking for trusted support in navigating the world of free schools, PAG is here to help.
PAG's experience & expertise
PAG has been at the forefront of the free schools programme since its inception. Our deep understanding of the sector, coupled with a proven track record, makes us the trusted choice for all aspects of free school support. Whether you’re applying for a free school, preparing for interview, or managing a new project or provision, PAG provides the tailored expertise and guidance you need to succeed.
Our clients, including those we’ve had working relationships with for years, have greatly benefitted from retaining our services. This approach allows them to access our expertise without needing to commission specific projects, offering better value for money and a more efficient process, enabling us to build long-term partnerships focused on continuous improvement.
PAG's free school support
Free school applications
Our team at PAG boasts an exceptional track record in crafting successful free school applications. With a success rate of over 90% for helping clients reach the interview stage, PAG is a leader in the field. Whether you're pursuing a free school through a local authority competition or a DfE central wave, we deliver high-quality applications that stand out.
Each application is meticulously developed by experienced professionals who collectively have proposed, opened, and assessed over 300 free schools across all phases and specialisms, ensuring that your application meets the highest standards.
If you’re ready to take the first step in opening a free school, contact PAG today to discuss how we can support you, or vist our LA presumption competition or Central Wave pages to find out more.
Free school interview preparation
While more than 90% of our clients make it, successfully reaching the interview stage is just the beginning. PAG’s free school support services include an in-depth mock interview process to help you confidently present your case and communicate your vision. By mirroring the actual free schools interview experience, our team leverages years of experience on both sides of the interview process to prepare you for success.
Our service includes:
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A detailed review of your application to identify key areas of focus.
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A simulated interview session, either in-person or online, using tailored questions designed to replicate the actual process.
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Expert feedback and bespoke coaching to refine your responses and strengthen your arguments.
If you’re preparing for your free school interview, contact PAG today to discuss how we can support you.
Free school project management
PAG’s free school support doesn’t stop at the application or interview stages. We provide comprehensive project management services to guide you through the pre-opening and post-opening phases.
Our expertise spans a wide range of free school projects, including mainstream, SEND, and alternative provision and delivers tailored solutions to ensure you have a trusted partner right up until the day you welcome your new pupils through the door, and beyond.
Below are just some of the key benefits of PAG’s project management support:
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Guidance from professionals with hands-on experience opening new schools as proposers and experience of having assessed free school applications from a DfE perspective.
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Flexible, expert-led support for projects at any stage.
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Continued post-opening support once your school is up and running
If you’re interested in opening a new free school and want to find out more about project support, contact PAG today to discuss how we can support you, or visit our pre-opening project management page to find out more.
Academy conversions
PAG offers expert assistance in converting schools to academy status; from initial preparation to post-opening support, PAG ensures a smooth transition while adhering to all DfE requirements.
Our free school support extends to academy conversions, helping you:
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Prepare for the transition and meet DfE guidelines.
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Form a MAT to expand your impact and strengthen your educational model.
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Navigate each step of the process with confidence.
If you’re interested in converting, contact PAG today to discuss how we can support you.
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