Everton in the Community created history when it became the first Club - Community scheme in the country to be awarded funding by the government to open a free school; a ground-breaking initiative for young people across Merseyside.
Everton Free School caters for young people aged 13-16 and offers an alternative education pathway to those where traditional methods in mainstream schools have failed. The college offers an 'open' sixth form and attracts many 16-19-year old students who choose to study sport in the environment and surroundings of a Premier League football club at Spellow Lane, Vauxhall Motors Football Club, Jericho Lane and Bridge Chapel.
Everton Free School caters for up to 120 pupils in the 13-to-16 age range and up to 200 students in the football college. It delivers an innovative, personalised curriculum supported by local stakeholders, industry partners and further and higher education institutions with collaboration from other schools, local authorities, external agencies and, importantly, our colleagues in Everton in the Community and the Football Club.
Housed in a state-of-the-art structure built in the shadows of Goodison Park, the impressive £4.2million facility includes a teaching block, sports hall, a covered 'street' running through the complex and a curving 'creative block' close to the existing buildings. As a centre of learning, Everton Free School dedicates itself to ensuring that every student has access to the best possible curriculum which suits their needs.
Everton Free School and Everton Football College provide exciting learning environments for students and bring together communities from different backgrounds while developing strong relationships with external providers, families and Everton Free School staff.
In addition to the personalised curriculum, the school offers a programme of extra-curricular support and enrichment activities which is providing exciting opportunities for collaborative working.
At Everton Free School and Everton Football College it is recognised that every student is different and everyone has their own talents and interests. Consequently, it works to ensure that students discover, explore and reach their potential in a secure, supportive and stimulating environment while equipping them with the values, skills, attributes and experiences they need for personal success and wellbeing in a multicultural society.
Ofsted judged the School as "good with outstanding features" after only two years of operating; a judgement to be very proud of. The last Ofsted report October 2018 judged the school to be good with Outcome 2. This means the inspector felt that due to the improvements made since our last full inspection in 2014 the school could be judged as Outstanding if it had a full inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Free Schools?
Free Schools were introduced by the Government to bring greater choice and diversity into the world of education. These opportunities offer Free School proposers greater flexibility with the curriculum, innovative links to employers and new ways to support young people.
What inspired Everton in the Community to investigate the possibility of opening an Alternative Provision Free School?
When the Government announced the opportunities for Free Schools in 2010 the invitation was there for charities to become serious providers of learning. The Everton in the Community Board of Trustees decided to investigate how a Free School could be secured. Everton in the Community provides outstanding community provision, dealing with more than 30,000 participants a year. The charity has a strong track record in the education field, particularly through the Level 3 BTEC Extended National Diploma in Sport course which boasts a 100% pass rate and is the equivalent of three A-Levels. The board of Everton in the Community decided a Free School should be the next step in the development of community provision and education.
What range of students does the school serve?
The age range is 13-19 and mixed gender. Students are referred to Everton Free School at the end of Year 9 or during Year 10 and 11.
How many young people will the school take?
The school has an intake of up to 120 students age 13-16, and up to 200 post 16.
What is the curriculum?
Students follow individually tailored learning programmes with an emphasis on choice and challenge. Each student is given a personalised assessment when they join Everton Free School. This is done in close consultation with the student and their family, supervised directly by the Head of School. The curriculum is integral to the personal and professional development of students and aims to inspire positive attitudes to learning. Work-based learning opportunities and 'authentic learning experiences' are a central feature of the provision. The Free School also works with partners to continue developing innovative curriculum models which maximise student progression and life chances.
What support has Everton Free School received?
Everton Free School has had fantastic support from local authorities, agencies and other schools, colleges and universities. The school is also working closely with industry associates and community partners to develop an exciting curriculum with 'authentic learning' opportunities. To see a list of partners, click here.
Who pays for the Free School?
The set-up of the Free School, including capital and start-up costs, has been agreed with the Department for Education. The cost of each student place is funded by the Education Funding Agency and, in some cases, 'topped-up' by a 'commissioner'. A 'commissioner' is the organisation that needs the place for a student, for instance, a school, academy or local authority.
What is the investment from Everton Football Club?
Everton Football Club supports the Free School with generous 'in kind' investments. The ethos and philosophy of the Club informs our values within the School - teamwork, dedication and commitment. A fantastic relationship with the Club means that the Free School benefits from access to first-team players, resources and facilities as well as support from professionals around the Club.
How can Evertonians support this initiative?
There are many opportunities for Everton fans to be involved, whether that is providing sponsorship, opportunities for employment or mentoring young people. Everton Free School is committed to strong community integration and engaging with Evertonians is important.
Is the school only for Evertonians?
No. Everton Free School welcomes and supports young people irrespective of whether they support Everton Football Club, Liverpool Football Club or have any other sporting allegiance.
