Brian Lightman, Education Consultant and former General Secretary of ASCL
What is the place of single and multi-academy trusts and how do we ensure that the system has enough capacity to support the schools that are not yet good enough?
Chris Tweedale, Chief Executive, Aldridge Education
Understand the benefits of MATs and how to unlock them: Economies of scale, shared resources, recruitment, retention and meaningful collaboration – real world examples of the benefits and potential challenges of MATs
A factual, balanced debate on the pros and cons of joining or creating a MAT
Libby Nicholas, CEO, Reach4 Academy Trust
Carol Dewhurst, Chief Executive Officer, Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust
1A - How to set up a MAT
The following sessions will address the key challenges of forming a MAT
Your step-by-step guide to forming a MAT: Understand the key characteristics of existing MAT models and structures, successfully develop your business plan and avoid common pitfalls
Nick Mackenzie, Partner, Browne Jacobson LLP
1B - Retaining your ethos and identity
The following sessions will provide guidance for those looking to join an existing MAT
Is it possible to join a MAT and retain your own identity? Recognise the non-negotiable areas you want to preserve and understand what to look for in a MAT to maintain your individual school ethos
Brian Lightman, Education Consultant and former General Secretary of ASCL
Steve Taylor, Executive Headteacher, Robin Hood Multi Academy Trust
1C - Academy conversion process
The following sessions will cover various options and provide guidance on key challenges
Clarify the legal process of converting: How to apply for academy status, your consultation requirements and the key steps for a successful conversion
Gain access to our academy conversion governor briefing to share with your governing body
2A - Leadership and governance
How does existing school leadership and accountability change when joining a MAT: Understand the differences between local governing bodies and local advisory bodies and know what robust leadership in a MAT looks like
Libby Nicholas, CEO, Reach4 Academy Trust
2B - Identifying the right MAT
Large chains vs. small local MATs
Multi-phase vs. single-phase MATs
Understand the strengths and weaknesses of your school, the pros and cons of different MAT structures and identify which type of MAT would be the best fit to support your school
Steve Taylor, Executive Headteacher, Robin Hood Multi Academy Trust
Carol Dewhurst, Chief Executive Officer, Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust
2C - Managing multiple schools
Scaling up without blowing up: how to effectively manage multiple schools as a trust, embed consistent working practices that work locally whilst providing central oversight, reporting and appropriate intervention
Adam Watson, Director, Every
Keynote 3 - Building a board
Good governance in MATs and how it works in practice: Understand existing governance and leadership structures will change when you become a MAT and how to build a board to drive improvements
Scott Walker, Regional Director, Academy Ambassadors
3A - Financial responsibility and compliance
Clarify your financial obligations as a standalone academy or MAT, report clearly to the EFA and ensure robust financial management and compliance across your organisation
3B - Understand the legal process of academy transfers and recognise the essential steps for you and your chosen MAT to ensure a smooth process and harmonious relationship
Plus, gain a toolkit of essential questions to ask any potential partner
Nick Mackenzie, Partner, Browne Jacobson LLP
3C - Sustainable growth
Develop a foundation for sustainable growth in a MAT, centralise services and avoid the common pitfalls of expansion to ensure your MAT is future-proofed
Andrew Lagden, Educational Consultant
