Case Studies

Derby Cathedral School

Place Group has developed an ongoing relationship with Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) which was formed in response to the national academy and free school programmes. Place Group provided a comprehensive pre-opening service to the Trust, including principal designate recruitment, governance, finance, marketing, education policy development and section 10 consultation. Derby Cathedral school opened successfully in 2018 with 180 Year 7 students and was oversubscribed for the first year of operation. Place Group has continued to work with DDAT on a number of additional projects.

Wynyard Primary School

Wynyard Church of England Primary School opened in September 2015 as part of a new development at Wynyard. As a school serving a brand-new housing estate, the Trust was presented with significant challenges. Place Group was appointed to provide project management support for the pre-opening phase including advice on governance, education, finance and stakeholder consultation.

“Place Group was very good at building and maintaining a relationship with the DfE which was crucial to the success of the project. We would definitely use Place Group again.”  Paul Rickeard, Diocesan Director of Education, Durham and Newcastle

Seva School

Seva School was the first all-through Sikh faith school in Coventry. Place Group was appointed to provide project management support for the pre-opening phase including advice on governance, finance, stakeholder consultation and capital works.

“The team were very good and provided some excellent input. Place Group developed an excellent relationship with the DfE which helped a great deal. The Project Manager was clearly an integral part of the Seva team and we worked well together. He brought in the right people at the right times. Place provided a good quality service – it did not feel that Place Group was working with other schools – it felt like a personalised service.”  Tarsem Singh, Sevak Education Trust

The Orchards

The Orchards was the first special free school in Trafford and caters for 4 – 11 years old students with complex learning needs. The Orchards is operated by The Dunham Trust which also operates Elmridge Primary School and Acre Hall Primary School. The Dunham Trust appointed Place Group to provide project management support for the pre–opening phase including advice on governance, education, finance and stakeholder consultation.

“The Project Manager guided the project with skill and determination. The approach was highly professional with a human face, this was much appreciated. The Project Manager was an excellent lead, he created trusted relationships with the DfE and EFA which was invaluable.”  Jo Appleyard, Executive Principal, The Dunham Trust