Admissions Consultation: Confirmed Changes for Entry 2027

The Cranmer Education Trust consulted between 14 November 2025 and 9 January 2026 on proposed changes to the oversubscription criteria for Year 7 entry to St Anne’s CE Academy from September 2027. The key proposal was to introduce a revised structure for faith‑based places (Christian and other major world faiths) within a maximum 50% faith allocation, with remaining places allocated via community criteria including siblings, service premium eligibility, and distance.

Two responses were received, one from Rochdale Local Authority, and one from a parent. The representations were considered in full by the Admissions Committee.  Representations made by the LA included recommendations for clarification of wording, some updating of terminology, strengthening the transparency of tie-breaker provisions, and recommendations for formatting.  In addition questions were asked about how the policy would be implemented, and the definition of ‘other faiths’ as the five major world faiths.

The Admissions Committee thanks the LA for the detailed consideration given and has implemented the refinements and clarifications recommended.  It confirms that the definition of other faiths as the five major world faiths is following Diocesan guidance.

In response to the parental concern the committee has replied to the parent personally, and confirms that of the minimum 50% community places, siblings receive first priority in oversubscription criteria.

The Trust Board has approved the new policy, including the helpful recommendations made by the LA, the approved policy is linked below.

Admissions Consultation: Proposed Changes for Entry 2027

St Anne’s Church of England Academy is proposing some changes to how Year 7 places are allocated from September 2027. These changes only matter if more children apply than there are places available. The number of places stays the same (180).

We are now consulting parents, carers and the wider community, and we welcome your views.

What is staying the same

• Children with an EHCP that names St Anne’s are still guaranteed a place.
• Looked After Children and Previously Looked After Children will continue to have the highest priority.

What may change

1. Faith-based places (only if oversubscribed)

St Anne’s is a Church of England school. The proposal is to allow up to:

• 25% of places for children from Christian families who regularly attend Christian worship
• 25% of places for children from other major world faiths (Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Sikhism)

Any of these places not used would be added back into the main pool of places for everyone.

2. Priority for children of staff

Children of staff may be given priority if the parent:

• Has worked at St Anne’s for 2+ years, or
• Has been recruited to a role where there is a staff shortage

3. How remaining places would be offered

After faith and staff criteria (if used), places would go to:

1. Children with a brother or sister already at the school
2. Children who qualify for the Service Premium (Armed Forces)
3. Children who live closest to the school

Why these changes are being considered

The aim is to:

• Reflect the school’s Christian foundation
• Recognise and welcome families from many different faith backgrounds
• Support staff recruitment and retention
• Continue serving the local community fairly and transparently

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How to give your feedback

Please send your comments (we cannot accept anonymous responses) to:

Chair of the Admissions Committee
The Cranmer Education Trust
c/o The Blue Coat School
Egerton Street, Oldham, OL1 3SQ
Email: [email protected]

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Key dates

• Consultation opens: 14 November 2025
• Consultation closes: 9 January 2026 (5pm)
• Responses reviewed: Week beginning 19 January 2026
• Final decision published: By 15 March 2026