Structure

We have layers of governance to ensure robust leadership and full accountability.   This is in accordance with our Memorandum and Articles of Association and Funding Agreements entered into with the Secretary of State.  These can be viewed under Key Information.

Members, Directors and Local Board members give their time voluntarily and do not receive any payment.   Their wide ranging skills and experience support our leadership teams to deliver excellence.

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Members

Members are accountable to the DfE and have ultimate responsibility for the Trust achieving its charitable objectives.   They sign off the Articles of Association and have the power to appoint and remove hte Directors.

Directors

The Directors are the strategic direction for the MAT and are accountable to the Secretary of State for the performance of the schools within it.  This is set out in a legal document known as the "funding agreement".   As charity trustees, they must also ensure that they are complying with charity law requirements.  High calibre directors are appointed for their skills, knowledge or experience as needed by teh Board.
The Trust Board of Directors has three core functions.
  • Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction
  • Holding the Executive Headteacher (EHT) to account for the educational performance of the Trust schools and their pupils, and the performance management of staff
  • Overseeing the financial performance of the schools and making sure its money is well spent.

The Scheme of Delegation sets out the delegated powers between the different bodies involved in the governance and operation of the Multi Academy Trust.  It is the key document defining which functions within the Multi Academy Trust have been delegated and to whom.   It provides a systematic way of ensuring Members, DIrectors, Committees (including Local Governing Bodies and their governors), Executive Leadership and Academy Heads are clear about who has responsiblity for making which decision in the Trust.

Committees

Committees have delegated powers from the Board and Directors to focus on key areas.

The Huish Academy Trust has three committees focussed on the key areas.

  • Finance and Risk 
  • Health and Safety 
  • Pay and Performance

Local Board Members

Each school has its own Local Board (LB).   The Local Boards are made up of parents, community representatives and staff.   They support the directors and heads by adding local context and challenge to ensure that each school provides the very best provision.

Local Boards have the governance functions delegated to them by the Trust Board for their particular school through the Scheme of Delegation and are accountable to the Board.    The LBs have Terms of Reference which they adhere to.