The Project

In early 2019, University of Portsmouth procured GLK Solutions to support the development of a new multi-academy trust.  The University wanted to embark on a project to engage with local schools to create a new trust serving Portsmouth City and the Gosport areas.  We are currently working with the University to finalise the application with the RSC (Regional Schools’ Commissioner) hoping to have approval in early 2021.

Our Contribution

GLK Solutions have led workshops with schools to discuss and develop the MAT offer further and presented to Governing Boards of schools considering joining.  This has resulted in written resolutions being received from three schools ready to join once the Trust is formed.

We have project managed many elements of the Trust’s development to date.  The application to the RSC is comprehensive and has required many elements bringing together.  Such areas include:

- Financial budgets (working closely with an associate)

- The school improvement offer

- Capability and effectiveness of Trustees and Members and subsequent recruitment

- Development of a full Scheme of Delegation

- All statutory paperwork for the Department for Education

- Governance structures

- Articulation of the central offer and associated finances

2020 has been a difficult year for many sectors and education in particular have been under a great amount of pressure.  We are proud to have built strong relationships with the University and schools to ensure the project could continue using remote approaches.  We have been mindful of the additional work senior leaders in schools are facing and supported in the best way we could, flexing our methods to meet their needs.  The result has been only minor delays to the target formation date.  

Outcomes

  • keyboard_arrow_rightSuccessful engagement with schools resulting in three confirmations from Governing Boards
  • keyboard_arrow_rightComprehensive application pack developed
  • keyboard_arrow_rightFlexing our support during 2020 and addressing capacity and pressure issues
  • keyboard_arrow_rightDeveloping various aspects including a central offer and school improvement strategy in conjunction with the project team

What our client says

The University of Portsmouth has been working with GLK in the design and creation of the University of Portsmouth's Academy Trust (UPAT). They have carried out effective liaison with the project group and external parties such as the RSC, DfE, and other schools looking to engage and also support and attend relevant meetings. Their previous experience in preparing bid paperwork and the associated RSC submission, including a well worked up Scheme of Delegation has been critical for the smooth progress of the project. GLK also have a wealth of knowledge and experience in producing tried and tested marketing approaches for this type of project.  The entire GLK team are professional and expert in their field, and we recommend them to you.

Mark Cooper
Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education Partnerships) | University of Portsmouth