Following on from our parent/carer and staff consultation, the Governing Body has taken the decision move onto the next stage of academisation with EdAct. 

The decision to select EdAct followed a lengthy shortlisting process and consideration of feedback from Parent/carers and staff. 

What is an Academy and who are EdAct?

At present, Firs Farm is a local authority-maintained school. Our budget comes from Enfield Council. Academies receive their money directly from the Department of Education and are not-for-profit organisations. There are many academies in Enfield and England.  More children in England are educated via the Academy system then via the Local Authority. 

As an Enfield school, we will still work closely with the borough, and they will continue to be responsible for key areas such as admissions and SEND. 

EdAct are an established local (Enfield) trust that includes a range of secondary and primary schools including Edmonton County secondary and Edmonton Country Primary. 

Is Firs Farm being forced to become an academy?

No, we are doing this voluntarily! We have had a very successful last few years with an impressive Ofsted inspection (2024) and above national results! We have a stable staff and manage our budgets well.  We believe that this will enable us to build on our success and secure the future of the school. 

What will change for children?

We will still be Firs Farm! Our uniform, curriculum, staff and everything that makes us unique will remain the same.  Our intention is that by being able to collaborate with other schools and, hopefully, make financial savings, we will be able to offer even more opportunities to our children.  We will follow the same term dates as the Local Authority. 

What will change for staff?

Staff will be paid by Edact. However, their terms and conditions (including pensions) remain the same.  

What happens in Year 7? 

You will still be able to choose the secondary school you feel is right for your child. Many children already go to Edmonton County, but many equally go to other schools as well – that won't change!

What next...?

Following the decision of the Governing Body in Dec 2025 we have formerly applied to become an academy and join EdAct.

The application will be considered by the Regional Director and Department of Education. If successful there will follow a process of due diligence. 

We are expecting the process to be complete either Autumn Term 2026 or early 2027. We will keep families and staff notified of the next stage.

Please note the consultation is now closed.