Local governors unclear that their power is diminished under a multi-academy trust structure, DfE-commissioned report suggests

Fears that local authority school governing bodies are not clear enough that their power can effectively disappear when their institution converts and joins a multi-academy trust (MAT) seem underscored by new DfE-commissioned research.

“The complexity of MAT governance presents a unique challenge in ensuring clarity in the roles and responsibilities of the different tiers of governance,” the investigation for the government by the National Foundation for Educational Research concluded.

It added: “It is clear from this research that roles and decision-making responsibilities are not always clearly defined in a way that is understood by all involved in governance, which can lead to duplication of work, frustration and ultimately breakdown in relationships.”

The report suggested that sometimes, within the same trust, local governing bodies (LGBs) were likely to believe they hold decision-making powers, whereas trustees serving on the central board point out that these sit with the board itself.

This seems a remarkable difference of opinion, on matters which go to the heart of what those involved in governance are supposed to be doing.