Joining Our Trust: The Roadmap to Partnership

We understand that choosing a Multi Academy Trust is one of the most significant decisions a Governing Body and Headteacher will ever make. Our joining process is designed to be transparent, collaborative, and—above all—built on mutual respect. We don't believe in the "hard sell"; we believe in finding the right fit for our family of schools.

The Four Stages of Joining TSSMAT

Phase 1: Exploration & Dialogue

Every great partnership starts with a conversation. In this phase, we get to know each other’s values and visions.

  • Initial Meeting: An informal "coffee and chat" with our CEO, Charlene Gethin, to discuss your school’s identity and how it aligns with the TSSMAT ethos.

  • School Visit: We invite you to visit our existing academies to see our "Tree of Growth" curriculum in action and speak with our Headteachers about their experience.

  • Trust Presentation: We meet with your Full Governing Body to answer questions about autonomy, finance, and support.

Phase 2: Formal Expression of Interest

Once both parties feel there is a strong alignment, we move toward a formal proposal.

  • Register of Interest: Your Governing Body submits a formal expression of interest.

  • TSSMAT Board Review: Our Directors review the proposal to ensure the partnership strengthens both the school and the Trust.

  • Department for Education (DfE) Application: We work together to submit the necessary paperwork to the Regional Director (RD) for approval.

Phase 3: Due Diligence & Consultation

This is the "getting to know you" phase where we ensure all operational and educational aspects are fully understood.

  • Shared Due Diligence: We conduct a thorough review of finances, estates, HR, and educational standards. Simultaneously, we encourage you to perform "reverse due diligence" on us.

  • Stakeholder Consultation: We support you in running a meaningful consultation with parents, staff, and the local community to ensure their voices are heard.

  • TUPE Process: We work closely with your staff and unions to manage the transfer of employment smoothly and supportively.

Phase 4: Integration & Welcome

The final legal steps lead to a celebration of your school joining our Trust.

  • Legal Conversion: Our legal partners handle the transfer of land, contracts, and assets.

  • Onboarding: Your school is integrated into our central systems (Finance, HR, IT) with dedicated support from our Central Team.

  • The TSSMAT Welcome: We officially welcome your pupils and staff into our "banner of love, wisdom, and excellence," starting your journey as a valued member of our collaborative family.

A Bespoke Approach

We recognise that every school is at a different stage of its journey. Whether you are a high-performing school looking to share expertise or a school seeking robust support to drive improvements, we tailor our onboarding process to meet your specific needs.