How to approach writing/reviewing your scheme of delegation

Your MAT is required to have a scheme of delegation that shows who does what in your trust's governance structure. Follow our tips on what to include, and what to consider when writing your scheme or giving it an annual review. Plus, see examples of how other trusts have written theirs.

Last reviewed on 15 May 2024See updates

School types: Academy•School phases: All•Ref: 40725

Contents

Requirements
The scheme of delegation is a joint effort
Clarify the role and responsibilities of all stakeholders
Have detailed lines of accountability so there's no ambiguity
Adapt your scheme to your trust
Review your scheme annually
Train everyone up once the scheme is in place and encourage them to revisit it regularly
Writing a scheme: case studies
Examples from other trusts
Template schemes for church schools

Your trust:

Must create a detailed scheme of delegation, which sets out the trust's governance structure and shows the delegation of decision-making and financial powers
Must publish this on its website, as well as a simpler scheme of delegation, including the structure and remit of the trust board, committees and local governing bodies (LGBs) and the full names of chairs

This must be 'readily accessible' – for example, it should be on a webpage, without the need to download or open a separate document

Should review its scheme of delegation annually (and following any change in trust management or organisational structure that would impact the scheme's effectiveness)

This is explained in paragraph 1.44 and 2.4 of the Academy Trust Handbook (ATH) and section 1.1.6 and 4.3.6 of the academy trust governance guide.

It's typically written by:

When writing