In our view, moving to a small Academy Trust has a number of advantages. Working for a trust, like the Northern Schools Trust, allows you to benefit from working in a collaborative environment with colleagues from our other academies.

As a member of the team, you would also benefit from more opportunities for professional development and promotion as we encourage movement between our schools to give you broader work experience.

The increased flexibility we have as a group of academies means that our principals can direct funding in a way that best meets the needs of the students. This has helped us to do some incredibly interesting things, including opening industry-focused schools.

Working for a MAT can offer numerous benefits, including opportunities for professional development, collaboration with colleagues across multiple schools, access to shared resources and expertise, streamlined administrative processes, and potential career progression within the trust.

MATs typically have a board of trustees responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and overall performance of the trust. Each individual school within the MAT may also have its own governing body, which focusses on the specific needs and priorities of that school.

MATs often provide a range of career development opportunities, including training programs, leadership development initiatives, and the potential for progression to senior leadership roles within the trust or across its schools.

Collaboration is a key feature of working within a MAT. Staff members have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues from other schools within the trust, sharing best practices, resources, and expertise to drive improvements in teaching and learning.

MATs typically prioritise staff well-being and may offer a range of support services and initiatives, such as employee assistance programs, mental health resources, and flexible working arrangements.

Decision-making processes within a MAT vary, but they often involve consultation with key stakeholders, including staff, governors, and trustees. The board of trustees ultimately holds responsibility for major strategic decisions, with input from school leaders and other stakeholders.

Transferring between schools within a MAT may involve an internal application process, depending on the specific policies and procedures of the trust. Staff members interested in transferring should consult with their line manager or human resources department for guidance.

MATs typically provide support and mentorship for ECTs, including induction programs, access to training and development opportunities, and ongoing support from experienced colleagues.