Governance & Accountability

The Diocese seeks to work collaboratively with MATs to ensure governance arrangements are robust, transparent and aligned with the Church of England Vision for Education.

The Role of the CDBE

The CDBE is the diocesan authority for Church schools within the Diocese of Chelmsford and has statutory responsibilities under the Diocesan Board of Education Measure 2021. This includes providing advice, requiring consent for certain matters and supporting the development and flourishing of Church schools.

MATs should engage with the CDBE where proposals affect Church schools, including matters relating to academisation, governance, admissions, leadership appointments, land and buildings, and organisational change.

The Role of CDET

The Chelmsford Diocese Educational Trust (CDET) acts on behalf of the Diocese in relation to a number of governance functions within Church MATs.

Depending on the governance arrangements of an individual Trust, this may include the appointment of Members, Trustees and Foundation Governors. Through these arrangements, CDET helps to ensure that governance structures continue to protect and develop the Christian foundation and character of Church schools and reflect the requirements of Church governace.

Governance Expectations

The Diocese expects governance arrangements to:

• reflect the requirements of the Trust's Articles of Association
• protect and develop the Christian character of Church schools
• provide appropriate local governance arrangements
• support strong accountability and oversight
• manage conflicts of interest effectively
• ensure appropriate governance professional support is in place.

Governance Matters Requiring Diocesan Engagement

MATs are encouraged to engage with the Diocese at an early stage where proposals may affect Church schools. This may include:

• governance changes
• leadership appointments, including CEO, Headteacher, Executive Headteacher and Head of School appointments where appropriate
• admissions arrangements and proposed changes to admission policies
• academisation and rebrokering
• land and buildings matters
• significant organisational change.

Further Information

For information on partnership expectations and engagement with the Diocese, please see the Partnership Agreement for MATs section.

For information relating to MAT growth, Trust Readiness Criteria and schools joining MATs, please see Development & Growth.