Governance and Scheme of Delegation

Acorn Education Trust operates a clear governance structure and Scheme of Delegation that ensures effective oversight, accountability and local engagement. Members hold the Trust Board to account for the fulfilment of the Trust's charitable objectives, while the Board of Directors retains overall responsibility for the strategic direction, performance and governance of the Trust.

The Board is supported by a number of subcommittees, including Finance, Health, Safety & Estates; People & Wellbeing; Risk & Audit; Safeguarding, Standards & School Improvement; and Academy Councils. While accountability for strategic decision-making ultimately rests with the Trust Board, these subcommittees are consulted on many important aspects of school and Trust effectiveness, providing informed challenge, scrutiny and assurance, and contributing advice and recommendations on the Board's behalf.

At school level, Academy Councils play a vital role in maintaining each school's unique identity, ethos and community connections, while providing local challenge and assurance to support the work of the Trust Board.

Together, this structure ensures that strategic accountability remains with the Board, while enabling strong local governance, effective leadership and robust oversight across the Trust.