Becoming an Academy
A Partnership built around your academy
Every academy that joins the University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust brings its own story, strengths and community. We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, we work with leaders and governors to understand what is already working well, where support is needed and how improvement can be achieved in a way that is right for the academy.
Our role is to provide the challenge, expertise and practical support that helps academies improve with confidence.That includes educational improvement, leadership development, professional services, governance support and access to wider opportunities through our university-sponsored trust.
Standards with support
High expectations, carefully supported
We are ambitious for every child and young person in our trust. That means being clear about outcomes, honest about barriers and focused on the actions that will make the greatest difference.
Our academy improvement work is evidence-informed and practical. Leaders are supported to identify priorities, understand the barriers to success and develop clear, measurable plans for improvement. We focus on the quality of learning and teaching, effective assessment, strong leadership practice and the development of staff expertise across each academy.
This is not about imposing generic solutions. It is about knowing each academy well enough to ask the right questions, offer the right support and build the capacity needed for long-term success.
We combine ambition with practical support, helping academies turn clear priorities into sustained improvement.
What joining our trust can offer
When an academy joins the University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust, it becomes part of a wider community with shared ambition and collective expertise.
Educational improvement support
We work alongside leaders to strengthen curriculum, teaching, assessment and outcomes, always shaped by the academy’s context and priorities.
Professional learning and career development
Through our trust and university links, staff can access rich professional learning, collaboration and development opportunities.
Strong professional services
Our central team supports key areas such as finance, governance, people, estates, IT and compliance, helping academy leaders keep their focus on pupils and staff.
A collaborative trust community
Academies benefit from being part of a group of leaders and professionals who share expertise, challenge thinking and support each other.
Local roots, wider reach
As a university-sponsored trust, our heritage is in education. We bring together local knowledge, research-informed practice and a commitment to improving life chances.
Your academy identity matters
Joining a trust does not mean losing what makes your academy special. We value the history, character and community of each academy. Our aim is to protect what is strong, develop what needs support and create the conditions for pupils and staff to thrive.
We work with leaders and governors to make sure change is carefully planned, clearly communicated and introduced at a pace that supports stability.
What our academies say
It was important to join a Trust family with a shared ethos and values, as well as to retain our own identity.
I have never felt better supported as a head than since I have joined the Academy Trust. I don’t ever feel alone.
I am proud to be part of a group of like-minded individuals all seeking to make a difference to the lives of children and to our communities.
The Joining Process
If your school or academy is considering joining a trust, we would be pleased to start an open conversation. This might include meeting with leaders and governors, discussing your context and priorities, and exploring whether the University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust is the right partner for your community.
If you choose to move forward, we will guide you through a clear and carefully managed process. This includes due diligence, communication with stakeholders, TUPE, finance and IT systems, estates, risk management and handover arrangements.
We understand that leaders need to keep their focus on pupils, staff and day-to-day academy life during any transition. Our approach is staged, supportive and designed to reduce unnecessary disruption.
Click here for a quick look infographic explaining the process.
Start a Conversation
Choosing the right trust begins with an honest conversation.
If you would like to explore what joining the University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust could mean for your pupils, staff and wider community, please contact:
Jennese Alozie
Chief Executive Officer
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01243 793500