Multi-Academy Trusts - Mergers & Other Issues Considered

Introduction

The Government’s plan remains in England that all schools should become academies. However, many schools have not converted, are within individual Academy Trusts/Foundations or are subject to Local Authority management - Local Authorities potentially themselves being able to create Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs).

There is some degree of complexity in merging Academy Trusts, with regard to the steps required, the effect on funding and how the voice of stakeholders such as parents and teachers can be respected.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• Why do you want to merge or is it being forced on you?
• What is the role and involvement of the Local Authority?
• What is the role of trustees and when do they have a conflict of interest?
• How do you know whether your partner is a good ‘fit’?
• Due diligence - what is it for, is it worth the cost or just work for lawyers?
• How is your governance going to work, what is the role of the local tier?
• Special issues for religious trusts
• What professional support will you need, lawyers/accountants/HR advice?
• Role of the DfE/RSC Unit
• Time issues and consultation

This webinar was recorded on 28th February 2023