Partnership Agreement for MATs

We believe that effective partnership is built on shared values, mutual trust, transparency and a collective commitment to the flourishing of Church schools. Our work with MATs seeks to support high-quality education, strong governance, Christian distinctiveness and long-term sustainability across the diocesan family of schools.

Memorandum of Understanding

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sets out the shared expectations between the CDBE and Church MATs. It provides a framework for partnership working and supports clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of both the Diocese and Trusts.

The MOU covers areas including:

• Christian character and the Church of England Vision for Education
• governance and accountability
• engagement with the Diocese
• school improvement
• leadership appointments
• land and buildings
• MAT growth and development
• information sharing and partnership working.

Download the Memorandum of Understanding

What MATs Can Expect from the Diocese

The Diocese will:

• provide advice, guidance and professional expertise
• engage constructively in strategic discussions
• support Trusts in safeguarding and developing Christian distinctiveness
• facilitate collaboration and shared learning across the diocesan family of schools
• work with Trusts on matters relating to governance, growth, leadership and sustainability.
• What the Diocese Expects from MATs

MATs serving Church schools are expected to:

• engage actively with the Diocese
• support and develop the Christian character of Church schools
• maintain appropriate governance arrangements
• participate in diocesan networks and opportunities for collaboration
• contribute to the development of a coherent and sustainable diocesan system of Church schools.

Further Information

For information about governance arrangements, growth discussions and the role of CDET, please see the Governance & Accountability and Development & Growth sections.