The Free Schools Group at the Department for Education has confirmed that, regrettably, our application for the Aspire Academy College has not been successful. The effort, dedication and commitment the Aspire Academy Trust exhibited during the process was acknowledged and we were praised both for our clear, coherent and ambitious vision and the strength of our proposed Education Plan. However, the Secretary of State, who decides on all free school applications, felt that the Evidence of Need i.e. the funding of commissioned places by local authorities, and perceived limitations in drawing upon secondary expertise, did not fully meet requirements. 

Whilst we are disappointed at the decision, the Aspire Academy Trust remains fully committed to reframing the conversation about special education; about how children learn best, about how families can be fully engaged and about our unwavering belief that every child is capable of accomplishing extraordinary things. Furthermore, the Trust firmly believes that there remains a clear need for innovative special school provision across Cornwall’s North Atlantic Coast and a decision whether to reapply in a future round will be made shortly. Our heartfelt thanks to all those who supported Aspire during the application process, it is very much appreciated.