Academy Trust Mergers and Transfers
Mergers of multi academy trusts are complex projects with significant legal, operational and cultural implications. Whether you are forming a strategic partnership, absorbing a smaller trust or consolidating for sustainability, our team supports clients through every phase of academy trust mergers from early exploration to post-merger integration. We have long-standing experience advising trusts across England and Wales.
Who we help
- MATs seeking to grow through trust-to-trust mergers or absorptions
- Smaller trusts looking to secure long-term stability by joining a larger MAT
- Executive leaders, trustees and members planning long-term strategic reform
Why choose Geldards
- Education sector specialists with extensive experience in advising MATs on mergers and transfers for MATs
- End-to-end legal support across commercial, corporate, property, employment, charity, governance and regulatory compliance
- Clear pricing with flexible and transparent fee structures
- Tailored project planning that aligns with culture, capacity and goals
Our MAT merger services
Strategic planning and legal due diligence
We advise trust boards and executive teams on the legal implications of merging trusts. We review Articles of Association, funding agreements, land arrangements and staffing structures. We carry out risk assessments and legal due diligence so leaders can make informed decisions.
Governance and structure
We draft or amend Articles of Association and Schemes of Delegation. We design the governance model for the new or absorbing trust and liaise with the Department for Education to obtain the necessary consents.
TUPE and workforce integration
We manage staff transfers under TUPE and guide union consultation and wider stakeholder engagement. We review employment contracts, pensions including LGPS and TPS, and workforce policies to support a smooth transition.
Property and estate
We transfer land interests and resolve title issues. We liaise with local authorities and dioceses where required, and advise on leases, shared use, licences and related agreements.
Regulatory and stakeholder engagement
We prepare submissions to the Department for Education and support communications with parents, staff, governors and the wider community. We ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and Charity Commission requirements.
Commercial Transfer Agreement Academy
A Commercial Transfer Agreement is central to most academy trust mergers and transfers. We prepare and negotiate the agreement to ensure a clear transfer of assets, contracts and liabilities, and to align TUPE and pensions steps with funding and property arrangements. This approach reduces risk, avoids operational disruption and provides clarity for all parties.
How we work
- A dedicated senior solicitor acts as your relationship lead, coordinating specialists across commercial, corporate, employment, charity and regulatory law
- Clear scopes and timelines with proactive risk management and practical solutions that reflect the realities of trust operations
- Close coordination with Department for Education teams, local authorities, dioceses and other stakeholders to keep the process on track
Get in touch
To discuss academy trust mergers, transfers or a Commercial Transfer Agreement for your academy, contact our specialist school’s team below for an initial conversation.
