Do all MATs have local governing boards?

No. The structure of the MAT and the level at which decisions are made should be consistent with the aims and values of the MAT. MATs that prioritise autonomy for their schools will retain governors for each school and this is known as a local governing body (LGB) or in Tilian we call them School Governance Committees (SGC).

Other MATs may have a vision centred around the majority of decisions being taken by the Trust. They may have advisory panels or no representation at local level.

There is no right or wrong - it is though important that Heads and Governors of schools understand what powers they will have after joining the MAT. The key document for this is the Scheme of Delegation - this is a document from the Trust Board which explains where the responsibility sits for key decisions.

If the MAT supports LGBs it is also important for Heads and Governors to understand how the new governing body will be appointed, ie are the roles similar to current arrangements (eg elected parent governors, community governors appointed by the LGB, an elected staff governor etc) or whether some appointments (including the Chair) are made by the MAT.

The Scheme of Delegation should be one of the first documents that is explored and discussed by Governors with their Head, as it is fundamental to deciding on which MAT is best for the pupils and students at your school. #inspiretoachieve #joiningaMAT #FAQs

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