What makes good MAT governance and why is it important?

Published: June 2022

By Dr. Chris Hampshire MBA (Dist.) PhD

Trustees of a Multi Academy Trust (MAT) are responsible for three core governance functions which are the setting of the direction for the MAT; holding the MAT CEO to account through support and challenge; and ensuring financial probity.

 
 
 

Due Diligence: What is it and why is it required?

Published: April 2022

By Dr. Chris Hampshire MBA (Dist.) PhD

If a school wishes to join a Multi Academy Trust (MAT) and the Regional School’s Commissioner supports this, then the MAT will need to undertake detailed due diligence on the school, as this is the process that investigates all aspects of the school prior to the MAT entering into a legal agreement when the school joins the MAT.

 

What are the benefits to a MAT of having a comprehensive IT strategy?

Published: February 2022

By Dr. Chris Hampshire MBA (Dist.) PhD

The UK Information Commissioner Office (ICO) was established to uphold information rights in the public interest and ensures data privacy for individuals and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect on May 25, 2018 and applies to UK businesses and organisations including MATs.

 

Future Multi Academy Trust (MAT) consolidation is inevitable but how will this happen?

Published: December 2021

By Dr. Chris Hampshire MBA (Dist.) PhD

On 28th April, in his speech to the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), the former Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson, outlined his vision for the future of the state-funded school system, where every school is part of a ‘family of schools in a strong multi-academy Trust’.

 

Latest News

Featured
The Rt Hon. The Lord Field of Birkenhead: 1942 – 2024
The Rt Hon. The Lord Field of Birkenhead: 1942 – 2024

It is with huge sadness that we heard about Frank’s passing. 

Throughout his impressive career, Frank gave his life to improving the lives of those around him. His unwavering commitment to social justice not only defined his decades of public service, but is also the foundation stone for so many causes and organisations he was involved in.

That is why, as the founder of Frank Field Education Trust, our mentor and, above all, our friend, he had such a profound impact on our multi-academy trust and all those who are connected to our schools. Frank’s focus on ensuring that all young people have access to the same educational opportunities is at the heart of everything we do. Chris Hampshire Chair of The Frank Field Education Trust, stated that he will do all he can to ensure Frank’s vision and legacy lives on.

Read More →
Handforth Grange achieves United Against Bullying GOLD School status
Handforth Grange achieves United Against Bullying GOLD School status

Handforth Grange has been awarded the United Against Bullying GOLD School status by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, marking a significant achievement in their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all pupils. The United Against Bullying programme aims to support schools in their efforts to combat bullying and enhance the overall well-being of all pupils.

Handforth Grange’s attainment of the United Against Bullying GOLD School status underscores their dedication to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and protected. Achieving this recognition is no small feat, as it requires a concerted effort and commitment from the entire school community.

Read More →
Handforth Grange Primary School celebrates as it receives Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating
Handforth Grange Primary School celebrates as it receives Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating

Handforth Grange Primary School (HGPS) was recently inspected by Ofsted and has been graded OUTSTANDING after its first Ofsted inspection since joining the Frank Field Education Trust.

The school was rated as ‘outstanding’ in all five key judgement areas, which include: The Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, Leadership & Management and Early Years provision.

Read More →
Vacancies to sit on the Birches Head Academy Governing Body
Vacancies to sit on the Birches Head Academy Governing Body

At Birches Head Academy, we have provision for two parent governors and there is currently a vacancy as one of our parent governors will sadly reach the end of his term this summer.

No special qualifications are needed, and the most important thing is to have a keen interest in the school and be prepared to play an active part in the local governing board’s work. Training is available for all local governors and the Trust has an expectation that those new to being a local governing board member undertake induction and safeguarding training.

Read More →
Birches Head Academy recognised with International School Award for Global Education initiatives
Birches Head Academy recognised with International School Award for Global Education initiatives

Birches Head Academy (BHA) has been awarded the International School Award by the British Council in recognition of its outstanding efforts to promote global education within its curriculum and school culture.

The school's commitment to international work, formation of global relationships, educational trips, student exchanges and initiatives promoting international awareness and understanding has recognised BHA in fostering cross-cultural experiences for its students.

Read More →
New Trim Trail Installation Becomes Reality After Successful Fundraising Campaign
New Trim Trail Installation Becomes Reality After Successful Fundraising Campaign

The fundraising campaign to install a cutting-edge trim trail, has come to fruition following an astounding achievement of £13,000 raised by the Friends of Handforth Grange (FoHG).

Mrs. Booth, Head Teacher at Handforth Grange Primary School, initiated the proposal for a new trim trail installation at the school – a project that was spearheaded by the Friends of Handforth Grange (FoHG). After researching various options from different suppliers, Mrs. Booth presented the choices to parents during a school event, allowing them to vote on their preferred trim trail design.

Read More →