TRUST STATUS
The National Context 2006 Education and Inspections Act: Empowering schools - autonomy / self-governance (Foundation Status) All schools are able to become Trust Schools LA strategic role: choice & diversity commissioner of school places high standards fulfilment of every child’s educational potential champions of pupils and parents
Trust Schools Are: Maintained Foundation Schools supported with a charitable foundation (trust) Therefore: Are treated in the same way as all local authority schools - National Curriculum, funding, asset management, Ofsted, school organisation, LA intervention etc Not to be confused with: Independent schools GM schools Academies
The Aim of Trust Schools To use the experience, skills and expertise from other schools and professions as a lever to raise standards in schools. A new way of using partnerships which are: non-threatening and for mutual gain at organisational level formalised sustained
Trust School Models Single schools Clusters of schools – vertical and horizontal And now…………. Open trust schools expanding to include additional schools Federations moving into Trusts ‘Town-wide’ Trusts Promoters of new schools Sponsors of Academies National Challenge Trusts
Benefits of Trust Status Using partnerships / expertise which contribute to the standards agenda Model of collaboration which offers the most opportunities, including formalising existing partnerships or developing new ones Innovative ideas / expertise - greater opportunities for students / adults Strengthening leadership and governance Strengthening community cohesion Addressing local and specific needs Perpetuating good practice / supporting others Opportunities for greater efficiency – economies of scale Opportunities for bringing more investment into the school
What makes an effective Trust? Clarity of vision – why Trust Status? How will it make a difference? Relevant focus for the Trust – raising standards Strong partners with appropriate skills and expertise Commitment to collaboration and innovation
The National Picture 400+ schools on the Trust and Foundation Schools Programme 80+ Trust Schools opened since 1 st September open Trust schools by end September 08 Schools submit an Expression of Interest to join the Supported Schools Programme - emphasis on raising standards and strong partners. Schools access start-up funding, consultancy support and other resources Closing date for the next round is 10 th November 2008
Further Information Mary Neate National School Support Manager Tel – Further information on the website Enquiries - Consortium Office Tel : –