(2) Getting local governance right with National Governance Association

In a multi-academy trust, the board of trustees is legally accountable for the decisions made in all its academies. However, this does not mean the board is required to make them all itself; it can delegate decisions to the executive and to the non-executive – those volunteering to govern schools. Governing at academy level within a MAT, often known as local governance, can take many forms. Trustees decide what to delegate to their academy committees, something many academy committees have failed to understand, particularly at the point of transition.

Based on NGA’s extensive work with MATs, it is apparent that getting local governance right poses a unique challenge, and many are struggling to make it work well for everyone concerned. This session will explore the issues surrounding local governance in MATs, addressing whether your governance structure is fit for purpose, and key lessons on delegation and communication to those governing locally.

Session holder: Sam Henson, Director of Policy and Information, the National Governance Association