We value all our schools, regardless of their current status, and are committed to supporting them as they serve their communities and live out their Christian foundation.
The Department for Education has set out a clear direction of travel towards a fully trust-led system. Schools are increasingly expected to benefit from collaboration, shared capacity and stronger support through multi academy trusts (MATs).
In this context, governing boards of maintained schools are expected to give due consideration to joining one of our partner multi academy trusts as part of their longer-term strategic planning. We have produced a Guide for governing bodies when considering academy status to support governors in giving full consideration.
Within the Diocese of Leeds, our church schools can only join one of our partner multi academy trusts, with whom we work closely. Each is committed to protecting and developing the Christian foundation of church schools. We have strong, established relationships with these trusts and support schools in exploring how partnership within a trust can preserve and enhance their Christian foundation. Schools should contact their named adviser to confirm which of our partner MATs are willing to work in the locality of your school.
Our partner MATs
Any change of status for a church school requires Diocesan Board of Education (DBE) approval. The relevant forms are provided below.
How we can help
The Diocesan Board of Education supports schools and governing boards in considering whether, when and how to move towards academy status. This includes:
- providing clear and impartial advice at an early stage
- supporting governing boards to consider the strategic, educational and organisational implications
- working with schools to identify appropriate trust partners where relevant
- guidance on application processes and diocesan approvals
Brief overview of the conversion process
Conversion is a staged process and is completed in the following order:
- Decision-making by the board
- Diocesan Approval
- DfE approval
- Due diligence, consultations and pre-conversion works
- Conversion
Summary flow chart of the process
Further information and guidance
- Diocese of Leeds Academy Strategy and Policy (2024)
- Guide for governing boards when considering academy status
- A1 Registering interest in joining a Multi Academy Trust
- A2 Application for joining a Multi Academy Trust
- A3 Application for a Single Academy Trust to rebroker to join a Multi Academy Trust
Keep in touch
If you are beginning to consider academy status, please contact your named adviser. Early discussion will help ensure that options are understood and decisions are well-informed.