Academy Conversion
Compass Federation’s proposal to join MAST (Multi‑Academy Schools Trust)
This Q&A explains what joining a Multi‑Academy Trust (MAST) would mean for our pupils, families, staff and community. We’ll keep this page updated throughout the consultation.
1) About Academies and MAST
What is an Academy?
An Academy is a state‑funded school that operates independently of the Local Authority. Funding comes directly from the government. Many schools choose to convert because it can bring extra support and flexibility while keeping the school’s identity.
What is a Multi‑Academy Trust (MAT) and why MAST?
A MAT is a group of schools that work together under one trust. Joining MAST would give us access to shared expertise (teaching, SEND, safeguarding, behaviour, finance, HR and IT), stronger school improvement support, and opportunities for staff development and pupil enrichment.
Why are we considering this now?
As you know Mr Hulme has been the CEO at MAST since April 2025 and has still been overseeing Compass as the Executive Headteacher. We want to secure the best long‑term support for our pupils and staff. Partnering with a strong trust helps us keep improving teaching and learning, widen opportunities, and protect school resources for the future.
2) What will (and won’t) change
Will anything change for my child day to day?
No major changes. Our name, uniform, ethos, school day and holiday pattern will stay the same. Your child will see the same teachers in the same classrooms, with added benefits from trust-wide support and opportunities.
Will the teachers and staff stay the same?
Yes. All staff transfer to the Academy on their current pay and conditions (this is protected by TUPE). We don’t expect staffing changes as a result of joining MAST.
3) Teaching, curriculum and support
Will the curriculum change?
We will continue to teach a broad, well‑balanced curriculum. Academies have some flexibility to tailor learning to local needs. Any future changes would be to enhance what we already do well.
What about SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)?
Our commitment to pupils with SEND remains the same. We will continue to follow the SEND Code of Practice. EHCPs remain the legal responsibility of the Local Authority, and pupils will continue to receive the support set out in their plans. Trusts often add extra specialist support, which is a benefit.
What about support for vulnerable pupils (e.g., Pupil Premium, children in care, and pupils learning English)?
Support for vulnerable pupils continues. We will keep using funding (like Pupil Premium) to remove barriers and improve outcomes, and we will follow all national expectations for these groups. MAST provides additional specialist advice and resources.
4) Admissions, safeguarding and complaints
Will admissions change?
The school becomes its own admissions authority, but we must follow the national School Admissions Code and work with the Local Authority for normal admissions and appeals. Any future change to admissions arrangements would require a public consultation.
What about safeguarding?
Safeguarding responsibilities do not change. We will continue to follow national guidance and statutory duties. MAST also has trust‑wide safeguarding leadership to provide extra support and oversight.
How will complaints work?
You’ll still contact the school first. If needed, a complaint can be escalated to the Trust according to the published complaints policy. We’ll make sure the process is clear and accessible.
5) Governance and accountability
Who makes decisions if we join MAST?
We will revert back to having a local governing board focused on our school and community rather than a share one across schools. The Trust Board oversees the MAT, sets strategy and ensures high standards. School leaders and local governors remain central to day‑to‑day life and decisions.
How will the trust hold the school to account?
The trust provides challenge and support through regular reviews, data checks, safeguarding audits and professional development. This adds capacity to help the school improve continuously.
6) Money, services and buildings
How is funding managed?
Academies receive their funding directly from the government. MAST uses a central contribution (“trust investment fund”) to pay for shared services (e.g., IT, HR, finance, estates, school improvement), which typically improves value for money. The rest of the school’s budget remains with the school.
Will this help improve our buildings?
Trusts can apply for, or directly receive, capital funding to maintain and improve buildings. Being in a MAT can strengthen bids and planning for site improvements.
What happens to the land and buildings?
The school site remains publicly owned (usually by the Local Authority or a charitable foundation). The Trust typically receives a long-term lease to use the buildings for education only.
7) People and wellbeing
Will joining a MAT help staff training and workload?
Yes. MAST offers joint training, shared expertise and established systems that can reduce duplication and improve workload management. Supporting staff wellbeing helps us keep great teachers for your children.
Will pupils get extra opportunities?
Likely yes. Trusts often offer shared enrichment (sports, arts, competitions), specialist teaching networks, and inter‑school events, giving pupils more chances to broaden their experiences.
8) Process, timeline and due diligence
How long does conversion take?
The process usually takes several months, including consultation, legal work and transfer arrangements. We’ll keep parents and staff informed at every stage.
What due diligence have we done on MAST?
Before proposing this move, we review MAST’s performance, values, safeguarding, school improvement support, financial management and culture. We only proceed if we believe it is right for our pupils and community.
Is this change permanent?
Yes. Schools do not usually return to Local Authority control after joining a MAT. That is why your feedback in this consultation is important and why we are taking a careful, evidence‑based approach.
9) Community, growth and your voice
Will the school keep its identity and community links?
Yes. The school remains at the heart of its community. We’ll keep our identity, traditions and partnerships with local families, nurseries, and community groups.
What if the trust grows or changes?
Trusts sometimes add schools over time. If that happens, MAST would continue to protect each school’s identity and standards. We would communicate clearly about any changes that affect families.
Will parents still have a voice?
Absolutely. Parent feedback remains vital. Parents can also serve on the local governing board (subject to vacancies and usual processes). We’ll keep open channels for questions and views.
What if I have concerns about the proposal?
Please share them. We welcome all questions and feedback throughout the consultation period. Your views help shape our decision and our plans.
Public and Open Meetings
Monday 9th February 2026 (5.00 p.m.) – St. Paul’s Church of England Primary School
Tuesday 10th February 2026 (5.00 p.m.) – Dunton Green Primary School
Thursday 12th February 2026 (5.00 p.m.) – St. Edmund’s Church of England Primary School
You are welcome to any, or all of, these open meetings; even if they your child doesn’t attend that school.
To respond to this consultation on whether the conversion of the school to academy status should take place, representations can only be considered by governors if made in writing via this online form: