Guidance

Applying to be on the approved list of independent special institutions

The process independent special providers need to follow to be considered for entry onto the list of approved institutions.

From:
Department for Education
Published
4 April 2014
Last updated
19 September 2023 — See all updates

Documents

Guide for independent special institutions applying for inclusion on the Secretary of State approved list

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Details

Section 41 of the Children and Families Act 2014 allows the Secretary of State to publish a list of approved:

  • independent educational institutions in England
  • independent special schools in Wales
  • special post-16 institutions

The guide explains the process for applying to be added to the list of approved independent special institutions. It also sets out the timescales and information required to complete the application form.

Institutions must be able to provide evidence and demonstrate they meet the criteria listed within the guidance.

The 2023 application window closed on 16 June 2023. 

Published 4 April 2014
Last updated 19 September 2023 + show all updates

  1. Removed the link to the online application form from the details section of the page as the 2023 application window is now closed.

  2. Updated the 'Guide for independent special institutions applying for inclusion on the Secretary of State approved list' for the 2023 application window. Applications close on 16 June 2023.

  3. Updated to reflect that the 2022 application window is now closed.

  4. Updated guidance for the annual application window.

  5. Updated page to reflect the 2021 application window is now closed.

  6. Updated guidance and application form for the 2021 application window.

  7. Page updated to reflect application window is closed.

  8. Updated guidance and application form for the 2020 application window.

  9. Page updated to reflect that the 2019 application window is now closed.

  10. Annual secretary of state approved list guidance reviewed and updated for 2019.

  11. Guidance updated for new application window opening.

  12. Updated guidance has been added.

  13. Public change note : Policy and process guide made into one guide

  14. Updated guidance added

  15. Updated documents for Spring application round

  16. Updated EFA and DfE autumn term processes and an application form added.

  17. Updated application guide

  18. Added the guide to support completion of the application form for inclusion on the Secretary of State approved list

  19. First published.