By Charlotte Goddard
Children & Young People Now
21 October 2009

Education providers who receive government accreditation will get a share of £20m to set up chains of schools under a scheme announced today.

The accreditation process, which will include requirements to demonstrate a track record of improving outcomes for children and young people, will be used to select partners and sponsors for trust schools, federations and academies. The best providers will be able to run more than three schools or academies as an Accredited Schools Group while Accredited School Providers will take over up to two underperforming schools. Potential providers will include successful schools, colleges, universities and other organisations like business, charity, faith and parents’ groups.

Children’s Secretary Ed Balls said: "The accreditation system will be rigorous but light-touch to encourage the best providers to apply. We are particularly keen to hear what potential providers think about our proposals to ensure we have the right balance."

The government is consulting on the proposals. The consultation closes on 22 January 2010.