November 2022
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This conference discussed the future shape of England’s school system.
It took place as the new Government considered how to proceed with the Schools Bill, which outlined the ambition for every school to be either part of, or in the process of joining, a multi-academy trust by 2030.
Delegates examined the practicalities and next steps for moving to an entirely trust-based system. They also looked at the process for local authorities to establish MATs in areas where few strong MATs exist, with a ‘test and learn’ exercise beginning among some local authorities during the 2022-23 academic year.
We are pleased to have been able to include keynote sessions with Sir Jon Coles, Chief Executive, United Learning, Kieran Cooke, Principal Consultant, Moorhouse Consulting; and Trustee, GLF Schools; Mark Blois, Partner and Head of Education, Browne Jacobson; Leora Cruddas, Chief Executive, Confederation of School Trusts; and Emma Knights, Chief Executive, National Governance Association.
Areas for discussion included:
- Implementation: the process of conversion to a MAT-based system - the future role of local authorities - the process of commissioning new trusts and expanding existing trusts
- regulation and governance: best practice in trust management and operation - the standards MATs should be held to - thresholds for intervention - protecting individual school autonomy
- support for underperforming schools: targeting additional resources - assisting the transition to a MAT - driving up school performance - the role of Education Investment Areas (EIAs)
- improving student outcomes: supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds - boosting achievement in English and Maths
The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from the DfE; and the NAO.
