Jersey Schools Set for Major Restructure Under New Partnership Model

Schools across Jersey are set to undergo a significant restructuring as the government prepares to introduce a new partnership model following a year-long review of the education system.

Under the proposed changes, schools will be placed into four partnership groups, each led by a designated partnership lead who will work alongside headteachers. The aim is to encourage greater collaboration, including sharing staff, expertise and resources.

The Government of Jersey says the model is designed to help schools respond to falling pupil numbers, increasing demand for support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and ongoing financial pressures.

Rob Ward, the island’s Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said the new structure would allow pupils to benefit from the combined knowledge and resources available across the education system.

Officials say the initiative will be funded through a reorganisation of central education leadership roles and will not require additional public funding.

The proposals were developed through a review carried out by a senior education official, two seconded headteachers and specialist advisers. The team consulted with school leaders, parents and colleagues in the UK as part of the process.

According to the government, support for the partnership approach is strong among headteachers, with 87% backing the plan.

The States Employment Board has approved a two-year pilot programme that will apply to all non-fee-paying schools. Under the plan, schools will be grouped into East, West and two Town partnerships.

Several institutions — including fee-paying colleges, Hautlieu School, special schools and Highlands College — will not formally join the partnerships but are expected to continue working closely with the wider education network.

The move also follows an independent review of SEND provision in 2025, which recommended stronger leadership and a more consistent approach across Jersey’s schools.

Ward described the introduction of formal partnerships as a “significant moment” for education on the island, adding that closer collaboration between schools would help ensure every child benefits from the collective expertise available.

Keith Posner, interim chief officer for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, said school leaders and communities had expressed strong support for deeper collaboration, and the new structure reflects that ambition.

Meanwhile, Carl Howarth, former president of the NAHT Jersey branch, said formal partnerships represent an important step toward maintaining high-quality education for all pupils on the island.