Avoiding the pitfalls of MAT expansion

Adding schools to your MAT without a clear sense of purpose can potentially lead to monetary loss, reputation damage and school rebrokerage. Read on to understand how you can avoid these pitfalls.

Last reviewed on 15 May 2023
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

You need a clear understanding of what you're trying to achieve. At the heart of Maritime Academy Trust is the belief in a curriculum based on creativity.

When a school is looking to join your MAT, consider:

  • Will the school and its community integrate into your vision?
  • Why do you want to take the school on in the first place?
  • Is the school excited about what you can offer and your vision?

Only then can you evaluate whether a school will be a good fit for you. 

Use our toolkit to conduct due diligence on any school joining your trust.

Build capacity in advance of need

Think about where you want to be in 2

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