This is a formal notification which sets out the areas for a Trust to improve, in order to be fully compliant with the Academy Trust Handbook. In our case, this notice relates to financial reporting and oversight matters identified in September 2025.

We are treating this matter very seriously and have been working rapidly with the DfE to resolve this as quickly as possible. To this end, the Trust has already taken significant action to strengthen its financial management and governance arrangements and has demonstrated meaningful improvements since the period assessed within the Notice to Improve. This work has included:

The introduction of strengthened monthly management accounts and reporting processes
Enhanced financial oversight and governance arrangements
The appointment of an experienced interim Chief Financial Officer and the recruitment of a permanent Chief Financial Officer, who joined the Trust in June 2026
Regular review meetings and reporting with the DfE, and
Implementation of all recommendations arising from the review.

Building on this momentum, the Trust will continue working closely with the DfE to ensure all conditions are met and improvements continue to be fully embedded. In the meantime, we want to reassure you that there is no impact from the issues identified in the NtI on the day-to-day operation of our schools, staffing or the quality of education and support provided to pupils.

For any queries, please contact us.

To view the Notice to Improve, please click here.