The Optimus blog

The blog that inspires leaders in the UK education sector

The Optimus blog

The blog that inspires leaders in the UK education sector

Sue Birchall

To MAT, or not to MAT?

Academisation has significant implications for the role of the SBM. If you place your trust in trusts, collaboration will be the key to meeting the needs of pupils. 

Are multi-academy trusts the future of academies?

As someone who works within a multi-academy trust (MAT), I’m eagerly watching the schools and academies that are in the process of creating, or joining existing MATs. The government’s change of direction last year has slowed the process of academisation, as research carried out by the National Foundation for Educational Research confirms.

For the first time, there is evidence that primary schools are converting at a greater rate than secondary schools. This is particularly noticeable in areas where secondary schools have already converted.

It is also the go-to option for failing schools, as identified in the reasoning behind the government's academisation strategy in 2010.

When a Commons Select Committee consulted with regional schools commissioners (RSC) last October, there was some criticism of MATs. However, the overall feeling was that they are the most effective way of fostering collaboration among academies. 

What is it like to work as a SBM within a MAT?

Even in schools that remain under local authority control, the remit of the school business manager (SBM) will never look the same. In an academy, financial management becomes an even greater responsibility, doubtless at the expense of other things.

After all, a SBM is only one person!

For those who enjoy all aspects of the traditional SBM role, the impact of academisation presents an interesting dilemna. The nature of business management will depend very much on the trust in which you’re working. In my case, the finance aspect has been separated from the business management side. While I studied and trained to undertake the traditional responsibilities, I now find myself undertaking a finance role.

However, I’m always keen to point out that it’s nigh impossible to be a master of everything, and academisation is an opportunity to train for the aspects of school business management that you enjoy the most.

How can SBMs meet the demands of an academy? 

As an academy, your school essentially becomes a small-to-medium business. And in these circumstances, the responsibility for satisfying reporting and regulations falls at the door of the SBM.

The support and expertise of the local authority is no longer available, meaning that collaboration within the trust becomes the key to ensuring that you can meet all of the demands that will be placed upon you.

My own experience has been that collaboration with my colleagues has shaped my own practice.

Is joining a MAT the direction we should all follow?

Although it would be difficult to make a conclusive argument, I am a great advocate of all schools being tailored to the meet the needs of their pupils. If academisation is a means to such end, then all the better.

Of course MATs do not hold all of the answers, and there is still room for improvement. Plans are afoot to bring in health checks for trusts so they can identify room for growth.

Former secretary of state for education, Michael Gove, commented on the academy programme giving schools the autonomy to make improvements and increase opportunities for students.

Does the economy of scale that comes with true inter-trust collaboration offer the necessary environment for this to happen?

To some extent I think it does, but the jury's still out. 

Establishing or joining MATs

Following its success in London, we’re bringing the Establishing or Joining Multi-Academy Trusts event to Leeds.

It's the only event that will provide legal and practical information on the process of joining or forming a MAT and factual, unbiased guidance on the different models available.

Reserve your place now! 

 

Similar Posts

Caroline Collins

Managing and investigating complaints

When it comes to complaints, it's essential to take prompt action to maintain positive relationships with parents and prevent damage to your school's reputation. Caroline Collins advises how to manage the complaints process and communicate outcomes openly. */ Nobody wants to receive a complaint but...
Read more...
John Dabell

It’s time to get fierce!

Having a ‘fierce conversation’ doesn't necessarily entail conflict or aggression but rather implies engaging in candid, passionate and impactful discussions. School leaders, who often face challenging and passionate conversations, must learn how to navigate these tough discussions effectively. What...
Read more...
John Dabell

Let silence do the heavy lifting

A school is a place where we are absorbing a constant stream of information all day long. John Dabell explores the impact of silence during conversation and gives tips on using it to your benefit. Quiet moments and silence are essential for everyone, especially in a school. Zen Master Thich Nhat...
Read more...