Model articles of association: 2021 update summary

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.

Last reviewed on 11 July 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 39427
Contents
  1. New model articles don't mean you need to update your own
  2. Changes that affect members
  3. Definition of having a quorum at your AGM and general meetings
  4. Trustees: their term of office and disqualification
  5. Other minor changes

Download the latest model here. You can find a summary of the 2021 changes on pages 4 to 6.

New model articles don't mean you need to update your own

There's no need to update your articles every time the DfE issues a new model version. Bill Dennison, one of our associate governance experts, told us this.

However, use the new model if you:

  • Are already in the process of updating your articles 
  • Want to update your articles. You'll also need to update your funding agreement in this case. Get in touch with your DfE contact before doing so, as you may need permission from the DfE and/or the Charity Commission to make changes to your existing articles
  • Are going to establish a new trust

This is explained in the 'What's new' section on page 4 of the latest model articles linked above.

Changes that affect members

Majority of members must not also serve as trustees

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