Academy status: an introduction

Learn how academies are governed, including the difference between members and trustees, and find out what key documents you need to be familiar with.

Understand the requirements on how to structure the roles of leaders, trustees and local governors in your trust. We explain what the rules are, and what's up to you to decide.

Get a summary of what changed in the last update in 2021. Make sure your articles of association are compliant when the time comes to update them, or if you're setting up a trust.

Save time by reading our summary of the governance structure in multi-academy trusts (MATs). Download a copy to share with your governing board.

See some opinions on the possible advantages and disadvantages of joining an academy trust so you can consider both sides carefully and make an informed decision.

Save time by reading our summary of what governance looks like in a single academy trust. Download a copy to share with your board.