# Free School — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/free-school

**In short:** A type of academy in England set up by groups such as parents, teachers, charities, or businesses in response to local demand.
A **free school** is a type of academy in England established in response to parental demand or to address specific educational needs. Free schools are set up by groups such as parents, teachers, charities, existing schools, or businesses, funded by the government but independent of local authorities.

## Establishing Free Schools

Groups propose free schools through an application process to the Department for Education. Successful proposals receive government funding to establish and run the school. Free schools may focus on particular approaches, subjects, or communities.

## Features

Free schools have the same freedoms as other academies over curriculum, teacher qualifications, and term dates. They must be non-selective and cannot charge fees. Like all state schools, they are inspected by Ofsted.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What is a free school in the UK?**

A free school is a type of academy set up by groups like parents or charities in response to demand, funded by government but independent of local authorities.
**Q: Are free schools free to attend?**

Yes. Despite the name, free schools are state-funded and do not charge tuition. They are free in the sense of being independent from local authority control.

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