A multi-academy trust in Sussex, the University of Brighton Academies Trust (UBAT), has announced plans to transfer its schools to other trusts after facing protests over its financial management.
Teachers at UBAT schools have staged strikes, accusing the trust of diverting unusually high sums of money from school budgets to cover administrative and backroom costs. In response, the trust stated it would collaborate closely with the Department for Education (DoE) to ensure “stability and continuity” across its 11 primary and three secondary schools.
A spokesperson for the National Education Union (NEU) described the situation as indicative of a “deeper problem” and called for all UBAT schools to be returned to local authority control. They criticized the trust for its financial mismanagement, lack of transparency, and insufficient funding for frontline services, which they claim has negatively impacted staff and students alike.
In a letter to parents and carers, UBAT acknowledged the challenges it had faced and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring each school provides the best possible education. The trust emphasized that it wanted to equip staff with the necessary resources to support students on a daily basis.
The trust’s decision to transfer its schools is grounded in its stated commitment to improving educational outcomes for all students. It also confirmed it would work with the DoE over the coming months to determine which schools would join which trusts. However, no decisions have yet been made regarding the future arrangements for the schools.
UBAT’s decision comes amid growing scrutiny of the financial management of academy trusts, with many calling for greater accountability and local oversight.
Related topics:
- India Surpasses China in Gold Purchases, Buying 51% More in Three Months
- Gold Rates Skyrocket in Chennai on Diwali, 24K Gold Exceeds Rs. 81,000 Per 10 Grams
- Gold and Silver Prices Rise Across India on January 13, 2025
