Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) A non-Binding Agreement How does it help sustain the partnership?

Cheltenham College Prep School Independent School Established in 1846 Saint John’s C of E Primary School, Cheltenham State school – local authority run – voluntary controlled Established in the building above in 1867 200 pupils on role Cheltenham College Prep School Independent School Established in 1846 376 pupils on role

It is a formal written document specifying the mutually agreed terms and conditions of two parties. Our MOU journey – informal partnership for approximately a year while the MOU was being drafted. Discussed with governance of both parties over a number of months and changes made – particularly in light of GDPR. Formally signed last year.

The Signing of the Cheltenham College/Saint John’s Partnership Memorandum of Understanding November 2018

Similar to a marriage – commits two parties to a relationship that is approved and signed and takes an informal partnership to a new level. With a MOU it is more difficult to reverse out of the partnership.

May 1995

Advantages It is stronger and more formal than a traditional informal agreement It is simple and direct The formal moment it is signed takes the partnership to a new level Both parties are invested emotionally and psychologically into the partnership and are accountable to each other It outlines who will be involved, what each school’s primary responsibilities are, the timeline and key information The review mechanism identifies clearly what has been achieved; this stops the partnership meandering and losing focus It builds trust and confidence between the two parties

Time for questions