Multi-Academy Trusts (Ofsted Inspection) Bill

A Bill to amend section 5 of the Education Act 2005 to provide that Ofsted may inspect the governing bodies of Multi-Academy Trusts.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

5 May 2022

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would let Ofsted inspect the governing bodies of Multi-Academy Trusts by amending section 5 of the Education Act 2005. It extends the inspectorate’s oversight from individual schools to the boards and trustees that run MATs, focusing on governance and accountability. In short, it strengthens external checks on MAT leadership and how it governs and supports schools.

Key Points

Amends the Education Act 2005 to allow Ofsted to inspect the governing bodies (boards and trustees) of Multi‑Academy Trusts.
Inspections would examine governance arrangements, decision‑making processes, and accountability to pupils, parents and the public.
Extends Ofsted’s remit from individual academies to MAT‑level governance while remaining alongside existing school inspections within MATs.
Applies to Multi‑Academy Trusts operating in England, subject to the legislative process.
Part of formal external oversight of MAT leadership and its use of public funds.

Progress

The bill is currently at the Second Reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage for detailed scrutiny, followed by further readings before final passage.

Who is affected?

Members and trustees of MAT governing bodiesMulti‑Academy Trusts and the schools within their networksTeachers, school leaders and staff at MAT schoolsPupils and parents connected to MAT schoolsOfsted inspectors and inspection teams

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Multi-Academy Trusts (Ofsted Inspection) Bill

9 Sept 2021

The 2021-2022 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

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