The Regulator for Charities in England and Wales
(October 2009)
We have been working closely with DCSF to develop a framework for the establishment of Academy Schools (referred to as Academy Trusts) as registered charities. On this page you will find links to model framework documents which we have agreed with DCSF. These are provided for reference and information. If you wish to establish an Academy Trust you must contact DCSF. These documents are also available from the DCSF website: http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/academies
We strongly recommend that before you decide to proceed with incorporating an Academy Trust company that the sponsor(s) and prospective directors read the following guidance:
Statement of Principle on Independence and Registration Protocol for Academy Trusts (SPIRP) - PDF
Single Academy Trusts:
Federation Academy Trusts:
Endowment funds associated with Academies:
When applying for registration please ensure that you follow the guidance in section 8 of the SPIRP, in particular the requirement to submit a statement on the independent decision-making process of the directors. To help directors to satisfy this requirement we have produced an example of the confirmation we will need in support of an application for registration.
It lists the documents and considerations we expect, as a minimum, trustees to have taken into account in reaching their decision to open an academy on the terms agreed. Please note that it also asks for copies of the resolutions and minutes of the meetings related to that decision-making process.
This is all standard information we routinely request. If directors wish to use this example as a succinct way of making the necessary confirmations they may do so. However, directors may prefer to detail the information in a letter.
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