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What is our Multi Academy Trust and why join us?

A multi-academy trust (MAT) is a type of organisation that oversees and manages multiple academies (schools) in the education system. In the context of education systems,  a single academy is an independent, publicly funded school that operates outside of local authority control. Multi-academy trusts are created to unite a group of academies under a single legal and administrative framework.

Key features of a multi-academy trust may include:

  1. Centralised Governance: The trust has a central governing body that oversees and manages multiple academies. This can lead to more consistent policies and practices across the academies within the trust.

  2. Collaboration: Academies within the trust often collaborate on various aspects, such as sharing resources, expertise, and best practices. This collaboration aims to improve educational outcomes for students.

  3. Autonomy: While academies within a trust work together, they also retain a level of autonomy. Each academy may have its own governing body and some degree of independence in decision-making.

  4. Efficiency: Multi-academy trusts are often formed to achieve operational and administrative efficiencies. By consolidating certain functions at the trust level, there can be cost savings and streamlined management.

Why should you join us?

The Forest of Dean Trust is deeply rooted in the local area. We understand the unique strengths and challenges of rural and semi-rural schools and are committed to inclusive, community-driven education. Member schools retain their identity while benefiting from shared values and collective ambition.

Collaborative Curriculum and School Improvement

  • Access shared curriculum planning, teaching resources, CPD networking and subject expertise.
  • Benefit from a non-punitive, peer-led school improvement model that builds on your school's strengths.
  • Participate in cross-school learning networks that support both staff and student progress.

Central Support to Reduce Workload

  • Enjoy Trust-wide support in finance, HR, governance, IT and compliance - letting your team focus on teaching and learning.
  • Get help with staff recruitment and retention, including access to shared leadership development.

Professional Growth for All

  • Tailored CPD and career development pathways for teachers, support staff, and leaders.
  • Opportunities to collaborate across phases (primary and secondary) and take on Trust-wide leadership roles.
  • Retain and grow great staff without needing to leave the area.

Strategic Security, Local Autonomy

  • Stay in control of your school's identity and ethos while gaining the stability and strategic vision of a well-established Trust.
  • Be part of a forward-thinking family of schools that champions the Forest of Dean and the wider education policy.

We welcome conversations with governors, headteachers, and staff who want to explore the next stage of their school's journey. Let's talk about how your school could benefit from joining the Forest of Dean Trust - on your terms, at your pace.

Website: https://www.forestofdeantrust.co.uk

Email:       s.brady@fodt.co.uk (CEO)

                     g.meek@fodt.co.uk (Assistant Headteacher FODT)

 

 

 

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