How multi-academy trusts are involved in school inspections
In April, Ofsted published its research and analysis on how multi-academy trusts are involved in inspections. The report aims to reflect how both inspectors and trust leaders view the role of MATs in the school inspection system. That emphasis on school is important as there is of course related discussion and debate around whether MATs should be formally inspected in their own right.
The findings
At present, the legal framework only permits inspection of the effectiveness of the school, not the MAT. Ofsted’s latest research recognises that this can cause ambiguity and frustration during inspection as the role of the trust cannot be sufficiently evaluated and reported on. On the one hand, Ofsted recognises that the school and MAT are “one entity”. Yet for inspection, that MAT proprietor is unable to be properly scrutinised and held to account for the school’s performance.
The report notes, and we would agree based on reports from our MAT clients, that whilst MAT leaders are now routinely involved in the inspection of their schools, there is still inconsistency in the extent of this involvement and the precise role MAT leaders will play.
Whilst this variation can in part be attributed to different trust models, Ofsted’s research indicates that this can also vary depending on the identity of the inspection team.
Away from the debate around powers to inspect MATs, the report highlights the vital role trusts have in simply supporting the school during inspection. We know from our clients that this support for the school’s senior leadership team, particularly in the current inspection climate, can be invaluable.
Whilst this report’s findings are drawn from a small sample of trusts, its conclusions add some interesting context and insight into the wider and highly topical matter of the future of inspection.
Read the full research and analysis from Ofsted here
If you have any questions or require specific advice following a recent Ofsted inspection, please get in touch.
Discover more
Related expertise
You may be interested in...
Press Release
A review by the Migration Advisory Committee into the UK’s graduate visa route for international students
Press Release
The Department for Education’s review of the relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) statutory guidance
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson appoints new Head of Education Employment
Legal Update
SEND capacity issues leading to non-compliance
Legal Update - Be Connected (higher education)
Be Connected – Higher education Spring 2024
Training
Managing complaints in schools CPD: September 2024 cohort
Training
Managing complaints in schools CPD: February 2025 cohort
Press Release
Browne Jacobson’s school leaders survey illustrates rising volume of parental complaints and impact on teachers
Legal Update
High Court dismisses school prayer ban challenge
Legal Update
School leaders survey Spring 2024 - the results are in
Guide
Revisions to Ofsted’s complaints procedure: what you need to know
Legal Update
OFS Consultation on freedom of speech guidance
Legal Update
Understanding the ICO's new fining guidance
Legal Update
7 ways academy trusts can prepare for the new Corporate Transparency Act
Online Event
School complaints: handling problem parent behaviour
Press Release - Firm news
Three newly-qualified solicitors join Browne Jacobson’s education team
Podcast - #EdInfluence
#EdInfluence podcast (series 3) - in conversation with inspiring leaders
Opinion
Can teachers personal and political views amount to misconduct?
Legal Update
New leadership for our education team
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson announces Nick MacKenzie to succeed Mark Blois as head of Browne Jacobson’s education team
Legal Update
Changes to academy conversion funding
Legal Update
Holiday pay: Government change clarifies treatment of term time only workers
Legal Update
All change at Companies House - Corporate Transparency Act
Online Event
Understanding the changing role of company secretary for academy trusts
Legal Update
Cyber-attacks in UK universities: Why failing to prepare is no longer an option
Opinion
School attendance matters
Legal Update
Not quite a blanket ban on mobile phones in schools: DfE guidance insights
Legal Update
Charity law update – March 2024
Opinion
Caregivers at work: Navigating new carer's leave regulations
Legal Update
Updated guidance for collaborative learning delivery in higher education
Opinion
EHRC publishes new guidance on menopause and the workplace
In Person Event
Child protection in Education – London
In Person Event
Leading Safeguarding 2024 - London
Legal Update - Be Connected (schools)
Be Connected (schools and academy trusts) - February 2024
Legal Update
Ofsted reform: Where are we now and where do we go from here?
Legal Update
New case on the reasonable adjustment duty for pupils in schools
Legal Update
What does the new gender questioning guidance mean for schools?
Legal Update
How do holiday pay reforms affect the education sector?
Legal Update - Building Safety Act
Do your campus buildings comply with the latest legislation?
