This is not an exhaustive list of the changes to the Academy Trust Handbook (ATH) – you can read more about the following updates in our more detailed summary of changes (see 'Next steps' at the end of this article). Your trust must comply with the 2024 ATH until 31 August. There are no big policy changes You don't need to change anything right now. Changes to the ATH are minimal, mainly giving more detail, or signposting to other resources available to trusts. Additions include more clarity and detail around: The role of your accounting officer in ensuring economy, effectiveness and efficiency of financial transactions (see paragraph 1.32) Setting executive pay, including that your trust's approach must be set out in an agreed pay policy (see paragraphs 2.27 and 2.28) Confirmation that the DfE may recover funds if there's evidence of irregularity or fraud (see paragraph 6.21) New guidance on financial support and oversight New guidance on financial support and oversight for academy trusts sets out: How the DfE will work
Need-to-know: Academy Trust Handbook 2025 published
The changes, in effect from 1 September 2025, are minimal, mainly offering clarity around requirements, including new guidance on financial support and oversight. Other changes include a ban on paying cyber ransom demands and stronger expectations for meeting technology targets.
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