The impact of statuary obligations on your estate

The Department of Education’s strategic contracts with Academy Trusts have a focus on educational leadership, accountability and fiscal management. Estates, although referenced in the Academies Governance Handbook, take a back seat but can have a massive impact if not managed. Acknowledging this, the DfE have published a number of documents to raise awareness of the importance of estate management and the legal responsibilities that fall on the board. The DfE states “Boards need to be confident that the school premises are safe and suitable, and will keep staff and pupils warm and dry. Good management of the estate reduces the risks associated with buildings. It helps to prevent the need for significant capital expenditure and disruption which can follow building failure.” The DfE have published a 10 point checklist for Boards to support their effective stewardship of the schools estate. The roundtable discussion chaired by Faithful+Gould will review the DfE checklist and provide an opportunity for academies to share what is happening in their trust, become more aware of how to discharge their duties and how they might be able to attract additional funding to support any identified works.

Session holder: Faithful & Gould