We understand that it is a big step for any school to join a multi academy trust. The externally recognised, dedicated and knowledgeable education team at Birkett Long can guide you step by step through the process to ensure that it runs smoothly and is completed by any anticipated deadline.

From the start of the joining process we will put together a team of specifically chosen individuals from the education team with the required expertise to ensure an efficient process. A project lead will be appointed, who will oversee the project, be available at all times to answer any queries that you may have and keep you updated on progress. That project leader will be available via direct dial and by email. You will also have access to the contact details of every member of the team, so that you can get in touch with who you need to at any time. 

We will provide fixed fees for advising and assisting you during the process. The service we will provide such fixed fees includes the key aspects of the joining process, including:

1. Assisting with the Transfer Agreement - the assets and staff of the school will need to be transferred to the multi academy trust. This is achieved by entering into a Transfer Agreement to transfer, amongst other things, the assets, contracts and staff of the school to the multi academy trust. 
2. Land arrangements - depending on how the land occupied by the school is owned, it may be necessary to vary the lease as part of the transfer process, or to transfer the land to the multi academy trust if the school owns the land it occupies. 
3. Employees - a TUPE consultation process needs to be adhered to as part of the transfer of the staff to the multi academy trust and this is usually completed alongside the parents' consultation. 
4. Supplemental Funding Agreement - each school within a multi academy trust needs a supplemental funding agreement. When you join the multi academy trust, you will enter into such an agreement. It includes information specific to your particular school, such as its name, capacity and age range. It is also deals with how the land of the school will be held by the multi academy trust.
    

For further details or for a no-obligation chat regarding the process for joining a multi-academy trust, please contact Thomas Emmett, solicitor and Head of Education Law at Birkett Long on 01245 453847 or thomas.emmett@birkettlong.co.uk