Different From Other MATs
Choosing a Multi Academy Trust is one of the most important strategic decisions a school can make. While many trusts offer support, resources and economies of scale, not all trusts work in the same way.
At the Forest of Dean Trust, we believe that strong schools thrive when they are supported, not standardised. Our approach is built on collaboration, local understanding and a deep respect for each school's individual identity. We work alongside school leaders to strengthen outcomes, develop expertise and secure long-term sustainability, while ensuring every school retains the qualities that make it unique.
As a trust rooted in the Forest of Dean, we understand the opportunities and challenges facing rural schools and communities. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, we provide tailored support that reflects the needs of our schools, their pupils and their local context.
If you're exploring whether joining a Multi Academy Trust is right for your school, here's what makes the Forest of Dean Trust different.
Preserving What Makes Schools Special
Schools Keep Their Identity
Parents choose schools because they are special.
We don't believe every school in a trust should look, sound and feel the same.
Our schools retain their:
- Individual character
- Community relationships
- Traditions
- Values and strengths
- Distinctive voice
Joining FODT means becoming part of something bigger, not becoming something different.
No 'One-Size-Fits-All' Curriculum
Many MATs require every school to adopt the same curriculum model, teaching sequence and resources.
At FODT, we believe schools should benefit from collaboration without losing the freedom to serve their own communities. We support curriculum development and share expertise, while recognising that effective schools may approach curriculum design differently.
Built for the Forest of Dean
We Understand the Forest of Dean
We are not trying to apply solutions designed for large urban areas to rural schools.
Our schools face unique opportunities and challenges:
- Rural geography
- Transport and accessibility
- Small school sustainability
- Recruitment challenges
- Close community relationships
- Mixed-age and smaller cohorts
Because we are rooted in the Forest, our support is grounded in local realities.
Relationships Come First
One frequent criticism of large MATs is that support can feel remote.
At FODT:
- Leaders know one another;
- Schools work together regularly;
- Support is personal and responsive;
- Decisions are made by people who understand the context.
Working in Partnership
School-Led, Not Centrally Directed
Some larger trusts operate through significant centralisation, where schools are expected to implement decisions made elsewhere.
FODT has grown from schools working together. School leaders remain at the heart of the Trust's development and decision-making.
Building Capacity, Not Dependency
The best trust support helps schools become stronger.
Rather than creating reliance on central teams, FODT aims to build leadership, expertise, and capacity within each school so that knowledge is shared across the Trust.