Multi Academy Trust Formation

We have deep experience in the creation of new Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) and in the management of new projects. Whether creating a brand new MAT from a group of maintained schools or coming together as a group of existing academies (or combination of) Gail Khan Associates can help. 

At Gail Khan Associates, we specialise in supporting proposer groups through the complex process of forming a new Multi Academy Trust (MAT). With our extensive experience in education, governance, and strategic leadership, we guide Leaders, Trustees and Governors through every stage of the journey, ensuring a smooth transition from maintained to academy status or a transfer from academy status to a new MAT. 

Forming a MAT involves navigating complex legal and regulatory requirements, potentially securing additional funding, establishing governance structures, and aligning educational visions across multiple schools. We understand the pressure this places on leaders who are already managing the day-to-day operations of their schools. Our team provides the expertise and capacity needed to ease this burden, offering tailored support. 

Whether you’re forming a MAT from scratch or expanding an existing one, we will work alongside you to manage the complexities, mitigate risks, and ensure your focus remains on delivering high-quality education. With Gail Khan Associates, you have a trusted partner to help you overcome the challenges and achieve your vision for the future. 

What can we do for you?
  • Develop your Trust Vision and Values 
  • Creation of a robust governance structure including a compliant Scheme of Delegation 
  • Recruitment of new Members and Trustees 
  • Recruitment of your CEO and CFO (internal or external appointments) 
  • Share best practice & lessons learnt 
  • Facilitate stakeholder engagement and consultation 
  • Financial modelling 
  • Mentoring 
  • Compliance and Policy development 
  • Marketing and communications  
What our clients think:
Three Spires Trust - Formation of new Multi Academy Trust

In December 2020, Andrew Warren the RSC for the West Midlands approved the formation of the new Three Spires Trust.  Formed by the Diocese of Lichfield and working alongside Gail Khan Associates the new Trust (Three Spires) opened its doors to schools in April 2021.  Initially the Trust is proposed to comprise of four schools with three now already in the Trust, these includes; St Peter’s Collegiate Academy, The King’s Wolverhampton (joined 1 May 2021), St Thomas CofE Primary Academy, Kidsgrove and The King’s CofE Academy, Kidsgrove (both joined 1 April 2021).

Venerable Dr David Lee, Chair of the Trust Board

“The task to form a new Trust from scratch and convert 3 schools all in 3 months was a huge job and I am certain that without the help of Gail Khan Associates we would have struggled to achieve it. The team provided a structure and framework to work within ensuring we followed detailed processes and delivered on time.  GKA communications throughout were second to none.  Knowing we had this expertise and capacity to call on meant we could concentrate on developing our education, finance and governance structures so they were fit for purpose and robust from day one.  The team at GKA brought best practice to the Trust, whether additional expertise during recruitment, procurement processes or developing our own internal resource – all of which we are really grateful for.  We would happily use GKA again – thank you for everything.”

Together Learning Trust - Creation of a new Multi Academy Trust in Calderdale & Kirklees

In November 2017, GKA were asked to project manage the facilitation of the creation of a new Multi Academy Trust across Calderdale & Kirklees.  The new trust called Together Learning Trust consists of 5 schools (primary and secondary) including 2 PFI schools.  The new MAT opened on 1 April 2019 with the first 5 schools all in the MAT by the 1 September 2019.  GKA were also instrumental in organising the recruitment of the new CEO and CFO of the Trust.

David Lord, Chief Executive Officer, Together Learning Trust

“Gail and Melanie were fantastic support for our team and the Board of Trustees throughout our journey to become a MAT.  Their organisation and co-ordination kept us on track ensuring we achieved all deadlines required and ultimately that our Trust was formed on time with all 5 founder schools on board for 1 September.  Friendly, knowledgeable, exceptionally diligent but most of all perceptive to the exact requirements to the huge range of audiences being engaged.  Nothing was too much trouble.  Top Class!”

Dales Academies Trust - Creation of New Church of England Multi-Academy Trust in North Yorkshire

In April 2017, GKA were commissioned to deliver a new Church of England MAT in North Yorkshire.  Consisting of 10 schools (1 secondary and 9 primary) the new MAT opened on time in November 2017.  GKA were responsible for overall project management leading on consultation, HR, legal and project tasks.  We are pleased to say the project was delivered on time and within budget.

Since forming the Trust, GKA have managed 4 further school conversions with the latest school Carnagill Primary joining Dales on 1 April 2020.

Damian Chubb, Chief Executive Officer, Dales Academies Trust

“GKA delivered a structure and framework to enable the schools to clearly see what was needed and by when.  The team provided clarity on roles and responsibilities and associated deadlines, enabling leaders to lead their schools whilst conversion ran in parallel led by Gail and her team.  GKA are an extremely supportive project management company and we look forward to working with them in the future.”

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