Governance at The Rivers CofE Academy Trust  

In response to the changing governance needs of a multi-academy trust and the recent external governance review carried out across the trust, The Rivers CofE Academy Trust launched its innovative and sector-leading governance structure in September 2022. 

The new structure consists of the following advocate roles at local level:  

Headteacher Advocate – to seek assurance that the head is listened to, supported and challenged 

Pupil Experience Advocate – to seek assurance that pupils are listened to, feel safe in school and are successful learners 

Community Advocate – to seek assurance that the school engages positively with its key stakeholders and local community 

Christian Distinctiveness Advocate (church schools only) – to seek assurance that the Christian vision and values are at the heart of everything that the school does 

The aim of the new governance structure is to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of the different governance tiers in order to avoid duplication, strengthen communication between governance tiers and maximise the use of the skills, knowledge and expertise of everyone within the governance team. Pupils will remain at the core of all decision-making.

Trustees recognise the importance of the local voice and are committed to ensuring that the local tier contributes to the development of organisational thinking. Two parent/carer representatives as Advocates per school will ensure that the voice of parents/carers contributes to decisions made at trust board level.

Our Advocates:

If you wish to contact one of our school Advocates, please email the school office at office-spa@riverscofe.co.uk and mark FAO (name and advocate role).

For more information about the Trust governance structure, including information about our Trustees, declarations of business interests, our scheme of delegation, and terms of reference please visit the Trust governance page.