Primary heads less likely to want to form large MATs
Large multi-academy trusts (MATs) are less appealing to primary headteachers than secondary, according to researchers.
Research conducted by academics from Sheffield Hallam and Plymouth University has concluded that “distinctive educational and institutional” differences between primary and secondary schools make academisation less appealing to primary schools, Tes has reported.
It also states that in September 2016, 67 per cent of secondary schools were academies in comparison to 21 per cent of primary schools.
The researchers conducted interviews with 10 primary heads, some of which were in MATs, about system leadership in their local area and found that they believed schools should be placed in some kind of grouping such as a MAT, teaching school alliance or federation.
However, they stated that such groupings should be built in a measured and organic way with MATs kept small.
Read moreLatest News
08/10/2025 - 10:10
Nearly three-quarters of teachers (72%) say the current SEND system fails children, yet more than half (56%) expect anticipated reforms to negatively impact SEND pupils with complex needs.
08/10/2025 - 10:02
Over a quarter of all schools and colleges across England are taking part in the free National Education Nature Park programme, which sees young people create nature-rich spaces on school sites.
07/10/2025 - 09:35
Sixty-five per cent of parents and grandparents have said they felt driving should be on the school curriculum, according to a survey by Young Driver.
07/10/2025 - 09:20
The government has announced a new package of bursaries and scholarships worth up to £31,000 to train to teach in subjects including chemistry, maths, physics, and computing.
06/10/2025 - 10:20
Schools in England could face an annual shortfall of £310 million in covering the cost of free school meals unless urgent action is taken, according to a new report led by Northumbria University.
