A maintained school within one of the categories set out in section 20(1) of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 may become a school within another of those categories (except a foundation school or foundation special school) only in accordance with this Part.

A school may not change category to become a voluntary aided school unless the governing body of the school satisfies the Welsh Ministers that it will be able to carry out its obligations under Schedule 3 to the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 (funding of voluntary aided schools) for a period of at least five years following the date on which it is proposed that the change of category is to take place.

A voluntary or foundation school may not become a community school unless any transfer agreement and transfer of rights and liabilities agreement required by Part 3 of Schedule 4 has been entered into.