Avoiding the pitfalls of MAT expansion

Adding schools to your MAT without a clear sense of purpose can lead to monetary loss, reputation damage and school rebrokerage. Use this article to help you avoid these pitfalls.

Last reviewed on 1 March 2022
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 44240
Contents
  1. Be clear on your vision and how a new school fits in
  2. Build capacity in advance of need
  3. Prioritise relationships with staff at ALL your schools
  4. Balance both Ofsted and the ESFA

This article was written in partnership with Tiffany Beck, chair of Maritime Academy Trust, and Mike Ward, an experienced MAT consultant.

Be clear on your vision and how a new school fits in

When expanding, consider whether a school that might join, and its community, are going to be able to integrate into this vision. Why do you want to take them on in the first place? Your MAT and the school you are considering bringing on board may not perfectly align, but when you’re talking to people at the school, are they excited about what you can offer and your

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