Interventions – when we step in
We contract charter schools to deliver results for students. We will intervene when performance falls short.
These interventions mean we address problems early, protect students, and ensure public money is spent responsibly.
Strong accountability for charter schools
Charter schools have flexibility so they can do things differently and deliver strong results for students. In return, sponsors must meet clear expectations.
We respond quickly when schools do not deliver what they agreed to.
What triggers action
The Charter School Authorisation Board may intervene when a sponsor does not meet performance standards, legal requirements, or contractual obligations. This includes concerns about:
- how well students are learning and progressing
- student attendance and engagement
- leadership and governance
- financial management
- legal and regulatory compliance.
When performance drops or risks emerge, the Board acts.
Early monitoring and fast response
The Charter School Agency monitors schools on behalf of the Authorisation Board. If concerns come up, the Agency contacts the sponsor early.
The Agency sets out concerns in writing and requires information, clearer reporting, or evidence that the sponsor is fixing the problem. Sponsors must show improvement and back it up with evidence.
If the Agency identifies serious problems such as financial instability, safety risks, or major breaches of the law the Board can intervene immediately.
Performance intervention: fixing problems early
Performance intervention is used when a school is not meeting expectations and there is a real risk the sponsor will not fix the concerns without direction.
The Board issues a formal performance notice that explains what is failing and what the sponsor must do to fix it. The Board may require the sponsor to:
- produce and follow an improvement plan
- report regularly on progress
- take specific actions to lift performance
- work with an external specialist.
The Board may also direct the Education Review Office to carry out a targeted review to check progress.
Performance intervention aims for on fast correction. Sponsors must act, improve performance, and show real change for students.
Termination: when performance does not improve
Termination is a last resort, but it is a deliberate safeguard built into the system.
If a sponsor fails to fix serious or ongoing problems, or continues to deliver poor results despite intervention, the Board can terminate the contract or replace the sponsor.
This approach ensures flexibility never undermines students’ learning, wellbeing, or public confidence in how public money is spent.
A results driven system
Charter school contracts are based on performance. In turn schools are given considerable autonomy. When schools deliver, they keep that flexibility. When they do not, the Board steps in.
Charter schools must deliver high‑quality learning, safe environments, and real progress for students and the system responds decisively when they fail to do so.