Strengthening compliance and financial accountability across multi‑academy trusts

Why financial accountability and compliance matter

Strong governance within a MAT relies on clear, reliable financial and non‑financial controls. When these controls are embedded, trusts can uphold public confidence and show their commitment to both current best practice and future‑focused governance.

MATs operate within a strict legal and statutory framework, covering financial management, data protection, health and safety, and more.

Meeting these requirements is not optional; consistent compliance is essential for responsible trust leadership.

Key areas of compliance for MATs

Academy Trust Handbook

All MATs must follow the guidance in the Academy Trust Handbook, which sets expectations around:

• Reporting and audit requirements
• Financial oversight and management
• Budgeting and procurement
• Delegation and authority levels
• Internal scrutiny
• Compliance measures
• Overall accountability

Academies face a more rigorous financial reporting regime than local authority‑maintained schools. Each academy trust must publish annual audited accounts, with the Department for Education monitoring compliance and ensuring alignment with the funding agreement.

A crucial part of this process is demonstrating that trustees, members, staff, and volunteers do not personally benefit from decisions relating to public expenditure. Upholding standards of propriety and avoiding conflicts of interest are essential to protecting the trust’s reputation.

Trusts must therefore treat the management of public funds with the highest level of care while continuing to provide high‑quality education and safe learning environments. Strong financial governance offers assurance that the trust meets its responsibilities under both the Academy Trust Handbook and its funding agreement.

Health and Safety

Health and safety compliance must be prioritised across all schools and sites within a MAT. Regular inspections, registers, and risk assessments help identify potential hazards. Clear action plans ensure risks are addressed promptly and help build a culture where safety is embedded at every level.

Data protection (GDPR)

MATs must comply with GDPR, including appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and publishing a compliance statement. A structured GDPR checklist helps ensure key areas, such as records management, information security, and data handling procedures, meet the required standards.

Regulatory compliance

The regulatory landscape for trusts can be complex. Many MATs require strategic, expert advice to make informed decisions and stay aligned with statutory expectations. Professional guidance can help trusts navigate evolving regulations with confidence.

Staying ahead through continuous monitoring

Ongoing monitoring of compliance across the trust is critical. Any concerns, gaps, or weaknesses should be addressed quickly and effectively. Reducing risk requires:

• Regular internal audits
• External independent reviews
• Active engagement with regulators

Trust leaders must take a proactive approach, ensuring issues are identified early and resolved before they escalate.

The growing role of internal scrutiny

Across the UK, MAT and school leaders are adapting their performance frameworks to ensure their organisations remain resilient and forward‑looking. Many are turning to external providers to support internal scrutiny activities.

Effective internal scrutiny not only drives continuous improvement, it also enhances transparency. It reassures stakeholders that the trust is operating in line with its policies, procedures and legal obligations.

Conclusion: The road to trust excellence

MATs operate within a demanding and closely regulated system. High standards of compliance and accountability are not optional; they are legal requirements and a reflection of a trust’s dedication to strong governance. In a sector where trust and reputation are invaluable, consistent commitment to robust practices ensures MATs continue to stand out as leaders in educational excellence.

Expert support for trust compliance

For MATs committed to strengthening governance, Juniper Education provides a comprehensive range of Internal Scrutiny and Risk and Governance services.

With extensive experience in the education sector, Juniper offers trusted, expert guidance to help MATs achieve compliance and operational success.

 Find out more 

Talk to our team

Connect with us to discover how our solutions can support your trust in navigating compliance, accountability, and transparency effectively.