Ofsted has published its first summary evaluation of a multi-academy trust (MAT).
As part of its new inspection process for MATs, inspectors evaluate the central workings and meet with senior leaders to determine the overall smooth running of the chain.
The first summary evaluation involved Truro and Penwith Academy Trust, which is responsible for 25 schools across Cornwall.
Ofsted inspected six schools within the MAT and found that five remained ‘good’, with one downgraded to ‘requiring improvement’.
According to the Ofsted evaluation, the inspection process looked at “a range of relevant trust documentation, including strategic plans, case studies from individual schools, pupils’ achievement information, minutes of meetings, information about partnership working and safeguarding information”.
The new evaluations replace focused inspections of a number of schools within a particular trust. The old system had been criticised for failing to properly assess the way that trusts support schools within their group.
Truro and Penwith Academy Trust was found to have “an unwavering focus on improving the life chances of all children and young people across the MAT”.
Inspectors went on to praise the MAT’s “strong culture of respect for school leaders” which it said, “ensures they engage positively with all the trust’s activities”.
BJ Chong, a Partner with Palmers, said: “A key aspect of growing a successful MAT is due diligence. Although this can sometimes be a lengthy process, it ensures that there are no nasty surprises which could, in the long term, jeopardise the success and reputation of the existing MAT.”
For help and advice on all aspects of due diligence, please contact us.