How do foundation schools differ from maintained schools?

Foundation schools are characterized by the greater responsibility placed on their governing bodies in comparison to maintained schools. In foundation schools, the governing body has more control over certain aspects such as the curriculum and employment of staff. This level of autonomy allows foundation schools to make decisions that they feel best meet the needs of their students and the community they serve.

While maintained schools are funded and controlled by the local authority, foundation schools have a degree of independence as they receive their funding directly from the government but are not controlled by the local authority in terms of administration. This increased responsibility for governance means that foundation schools can implement policies and practices that are tailored to their specific educational goals, facilities, and community requirements.

In contrast, options involving less funding, dependence on the government, or not following educational standards are not appropriate descriptions of what differentiates foundation schools from maintained schools. Foundation schools still adhere to national educational standards, even if they have more flexibility in how they meet those standards.