Comprehensive HR solutions for Multi-Academy Trusts

Author: Clare Alan-Waller, Director of People Solutions, Capita Entrust

Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) face complex demands, from delivering exceptional teaching and driving school improvement to managing financial pressures. At the core of these challenges is the need to build and sustain a motivated, high-performing workforce.

Recruitment and retention have become significant concerns in recent years. Teacher supply is under strain, with difficulties in attracting new talent and retaining experienced staff. Workload pressures, constrained budgets, and shifting expectations often exacerbate these issues, placing additional demands on MAT leadership. 

According to the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), the UK government is projected to miss its teacher recruitment targets for 2024–25 by 40% at secondary level and 17% at primary level.

At the same time, more teachers are leaving the profession, citing increased workloads, extended working hours, and limited opportunities for progression. 

In this challenging environment, how can MATs better manage their workforce while meeting their strategic goals? The answer lies in a complete, holistic HR solution - one that integrates strategic and transactional services to deliver real results. At the heart of this approach is the effective use of people data, combined with expert guidance and seamless operational support.

Turning data into actionable insights 

MATs generate a wealth of people data that often goes underutilised. When managed effectively, this data can provide actionable insights to guide decision-making and improve workforce management. The ability to turn raw data into actionable insights is what distinguishes a reactive response from a proactive strategy. 

For example, analysing workforce data can reveal trends that require attention. High absenteeism might point to workload imbalances or unmet staff needs. Comparing data across schools within a trust could highlight differences in leadership styles, wellbeing initiatives or workplace culture. By understanding these patterns, it becomes possible to implement tailored solutions - whether through mentoring programmes, flexible working options or adjustments to workload distribution. 

Taking a trust-wide view of data allows MAT leaders to address challenges collectively rather than in isolation. This collaborative approach drives improvements that benefit both staff and students, enabling MATs to achieve sustainable success.

Balancing strategy and operations through a holistic approach 

An effective HR strategy seamlessly integrates operational efficiency with forward-thinking strategic planning. While transactional HR functions are critical to keeping operations running smoothly, strategic initiatives ensure the trust’s workforce remains engaged, motivated and aligned with organisational goals. Transactional services form the backbone of HR operations, ensuring staff are paid accurately and on time, contracts are managed efficiently, and compliance is maintained. These processes reduce administrative pressures, freeing up leadership to focus on more strategic priorities. 

Strategic solutions, however, take HR beyond day-to-day management. Long-term planning for recruitment, retention, and staff development is essential for MATs looking to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. Best practices include running recruitment assessment centres, developing CPD programmes tailored to staff needs, and creating retention strategies that prioritise wellbeing and career growth. 

When these elements are aligned, MATs can build a robust workforce strategy that supports operational excellence and empowers staff to deliver outstanding educational outcomes.

Navigating growth with confidence 

As MATs grow, managing people effectively becomes even more critical. Growth often involves mergers, academy conversions, or regional transitions - each presenting its own unique challenges. The key to navigating these transitions lies in aligning people strategies with the trust’s vision and values. 

For example, during a merger, ensuring a smooth integration of new staff, cultures, and practices is vital to maintaining stability and alignment. Clear communication and thoughtful consultation are essential for fostering collaboration and trust among employees. These moments of change, while complex, also provide an opportunity to strengthen the trust’s culture and people strategy. 

By addressing these challenges with a proactive approach, MATs can turn periods of change into opportunities for long-term success.

Flexible and scalable support 

Investing in a holistic HR solution doesn’t have to mean committing to fixed, long-term contracts. Recognising the varied needs of MATs, we advocate for flexible, scalable support that can adapt to changing demands. 

One example is our flexible retainer package which allows MATs to access strategic HR expertise as needed with no long-term contract. This flexible model is ideal for trusts that require guidance on specific issues, from developing people strategies to addressing sensitive workforce challenges. By offering expert support when it’s needed most, this approach ensures that MATs can respond quickly and effectively to evolving circumstances. Ultimately, flexibility is key to enabling MATs to enhance their HR capacity, while managing budgets effectively.

A complete HR solution for MAT success 

MATs face increasing pressure to meet recruitment targets, retain high-quality staff, and manage operational complexities - all while staying focused on improving educational outcomes. A holistic HR strategy that integrates operational efficiency with strategic foresight provides the foundation for overcoming these challenges. 

By harnessing data, optimising processes, and aligning people strategies with organisational goals, we empower MATs to build thriving workplaces where staff feel supported, and students succeed. With over 220 academy conversions completed and a proven track record of delivering impactful results, we are committed to helping trusts achieve sustainable success.

Find out more 

To find out more about our people solutions and how we can support your specific HR needs, get in touch today at information@entrust-ed.co.uk