Understanding how finances in multi-academy trusts (MATs) work is important, particularly as MATs undertake restructures, move away from national pay and conditions or make cuts.
The lack of transparency and accountability in the way MATs operate, as well as jargon-heavy financial statements, can appear daunting. But publicly available information on MAT finances can be used to challenge decisions, mobilise members, demand more transparency and defend terms and conditions.
This toolkit gives an overview of how reps can use financial information to scrutinise three key aspects of MAT finances: the high pay of MAT CEOs and leaders, MAT reserve levels and the funding of central services.
The toolkit also provides guidance and ideas for using this information to inform bargaining and campaigns.