The skill set of being a fantastic school leader does not always translate to the skill set for a great system leader in a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) or collaboration. Here are some pointers that guided me as a CEO of a MAT.
Best Practice in Leading a Multi-Academy Trust
Effective leadership in a MAT combines a clear educational vision with strong governance, strategic alignment, and a culture of collaboration. Successful MAT leaders:
- Set a Unifying Vision – Articulate and model a clear mission and values that inspire staff, pupils, and communities across all academies.
- Focus on Excellence – Use evidence-based strategies to raise standards, close attainment gaps, and ensure consistent, high-quality teaching.
- Enable Collaboration – Foster professional networks and knowledge-sharing across schools, valuing both autonomy and collective responsibility.
- Strengthen Governance – Maintain transparent decision-making, robust accountability, and compliance with statutory requirements.
- Drive Sustainable Growth – Plan for expansion that strengthens the trust without compromising educational outcomes or financial stability.
- Invest in People – Prioritise professional development, wellbeing, and leadership pipelines to secure long-term success.
- Engage Stakeholders – Build trust through open communication with pupils, parents, staff, and local communities.
At its core, MAT leadership is about creating a culture where every academy thrives individually while contributing to the shared success of the whole trust.
Resources:
Chisnell Chatter Live – Attendance – 30 minute leadership briefing on attendance
Chisnell Chatter Live – Pitch Perfect Pupil Premium – 30 minute leadership briefing on support for disadvantaged pupils.
Chisnell Chatter Live – Talent Pathways – 30 minute leadership briefing on culture changing CPD.
Here are monitoring forms that can be used when undertaking school reviews. These focus on three key judgement areas of within the new Ofsted Framework. Safeguarding, achievement, curriculum and teaching.
My publications:
Embedding a culture of research – Impact Journal Article
Irresistible Learning 